Paradigm Switch
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In Sophocles, Oedipus Rex; meaning Oedipus the King, the theme of sight and blindness becomes a metaphor to the truth and ignorance of the truth. Sight is defined as a mental perception or regard produced by visual images. In Oedipus Rex, sight, is portrayed more deeply on an intellectual level, rather than on a physical level; interpreted as the insight of the truth. In the play, Oedipus symbolizes ignorance; in contrast, Tiresias, a blind seer, represents the truth. The developing conflict between Oedipus and Tiresias demonstrates the struggle for the acceptance of the truth.
“Blind instead of seeing” (
Can blind people see? Referring to Oedipus, in context this citation is fairly ironic in the literal explanation. Although at the inferential level this quote is understandable. Tiresias is essential to the story since he develop the theme of blindness, by comparing his own physical blindness against Oedipuss mental blindness. Tiresias is responsible for the dramatic irony in the play; because of his knowledge of the truth of Oedipus, which he exposes to the audience. “You purblind man in ears, mind and vision” (