Oblivion, n.
Etymology: [L. oblivio, akin to oblivisci to forget: cf. OF. oblivion.]
1. The act of forgetting, or the state of being forgotten; cessation of remembrance; forgetfulness. Second childishness and mere oblivion. Shak. Among our crimes oblivion may be set. Dryden The origin of our city will be buried in eternal oblivion. W. Irving.
2. Official ignoring of offenses; amnesty, or general pardon; as, an act of oblivion. Sir J. Davies.
Syn. -- See Forgetfulness.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for oblivion; he lists it under pardon.
Where he writes about it:
Oblivion, from the Latin, signifies overlooking and virtually forgetting an offense, so that the offender stands before the law in all respects as if it had never been committed. — from pardon
Pardon affects individuals; amnesty and oblivion are said of great numbers. — from pardon
An amnesty is issued after war, insurrection, or rebellion; it is often granted by "an act of oblivion," and includes a full pardon of all offenders who come within its provisions. — from pardon