They lie to Oedipus to protect him, but they are actually sheltering him from truth that could save Thebes. His kingdom is in a state of chaos due to his inability to recognize the truth. Angered at the unpunished murder, the gods create a state of turmoil in Thebian society and in nature. Infants die, herds are plagued with infirmity and there is no trust within the empire. Although Oedipus' pursuit of truth has honourable intentions, the deception of others causes the reality he seeks to seem even harsher and more unbearable. In contrast to Oedipus, deception in King Lear leads to the pursuit of truth. The Earl of Gloucester proves his righteous nature by respecting both his sons in equal measure, even though his youngest, Edmund, is a bastard. His pursuit of truth is made evident when Edmund hides a letter from him, claiming it to be of no importance: "No? What need then that terrible dispatch of It into your pocket? The quality of nothing hath not Such need to hide itself. Let's see. Come, if it be nothing, I shall not need spectacle" (Shakespeare I, iv, 32-35). Edmund's deception causes Gloucester's curiosity for the truth. Gloucester seeks the true nature of matters and believes that everything of importance should be made evident, in order to avoid chaos. Although his intentions are honourable, he is blinded by Edmund's deception. His son relates falsehoods concerning Edgar's supposed plot to kill his father and assume his position as Earl. Gloucester hesitantly believes his bastard son and passes harsh judgement on his other son, causing Edgar's isolation from society. Further disruptions of order later occur, such as Edmund's ascent into the position of Earl. The turmoil leads to treasonous accusations against Gloucester, whose eyes are ultimately removed in a malicious fashion. When he reaches a greater state of isolation, Gloucester realizes the crimes he has committed against Edgar and experiences remorse.