What does blindness symbolize in Oedipus Rex?

In Oedipus Rex, blindness serves as a powerful symbol of ignorance and insight. The character of Oedipus begins the play with physical sight, yet he is blind to the truth of his own identity and the reality of his actions. His inability to see the truth about his past and his fate is a central theme in the play.

Throughout the narrative, the metaphor of blindness emphasizes the distinction between physical vision and intellectual or emotional insight. For instance, although Oedipus can see the world around him, he is oblivious to the deeper truths of his life, marked by his tragic fate of killing his father and marrying his mother. As the story unfolds, when Oedipus finally discovers the horrific truths, he blinds himself, which is emblematic of his newfound insight; he can now "see" the truth, but it comes at a devastating personal cost.

This duality underscores the idea that true vision comes not from the eyes but from an understanding of one’s self and circumstances. Thus, blindness in the context of Oedipus Rex aligns more with themes of ignorance and insight than with physical impairment or emotional states such as fear and anxiety.