The Character Oedipus Analysis

Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex" is a classic Greek tragedy that tells the story of Oedipus, a nobleman who becomes the king of Thebes and unwittingly fulfills a prophecy that leads to his tragic downfall. In this essay, we will explore how the character of Oedipus serves as a tragic hero whose excessive pride and determination to uncover the truth ultimately lead to his downfall.

Oedipus' Tragic Flaw and Excessive Pride

The concept of the tragic hero, as defined by Aristotle, involves a character of noble stature who possesses a tragic flaw that leads to their downfall. Oedipus fits this description perfectly, as his tragic flaw is his excessive pride and arrogance. Throughout the play, Oedipus's hubris is evident in his interactions with others and his refusal to believe that he could be responsible for the plague that has befallen Thebes. For example, Oedipus declares, "I will fight for him as I would fight for my own life, to find the assassin of Laius within the land and not to care if the murderer should prove to be a member of my own family, and with my eyes I'll purge him away" (Sophocles, p. 20). This quote demonstrates Oedipus' arrogance in believing that he alone has the power to solve the mystery and bring justice to Thebes.

Oedipus' Determination to Uncover the Truth

Oedipus' relentless pursuit of truth is another significant aspect of his character that contributes to his downfall. Despite warnings from others, Oedipus remains steadfast in his quest to uncover the truth about his identity and the murder of King Laius. For instance, when Tiresias, the blind prophet, warns Oedipus that he does not want to know the truth, Oedipus dismisses him, saying, "I will not be plucked from the public streets of Thebes and hauled to be hunted in the dirt for a catch of filth... and poisoning the air" (Sophocles, p. 32). This refusal to heed the warnings of others and his relentless questioning and search for answers ultimately lead Oedipus to discover the painful truth about his past.

Oedipus' Downfall and the Concept of Fate

The concept of fate plays a central role in the plot of "Oedipus Rex." Oedipus' actions and decisions contribute to his downfall, as he unknowingly fulfills the prophecy that he would kill his father and marry his mother. Despite his best efforts to avoid this fate, Oedipus' relentless pursuit of the truth and his refusal to accept the warnings of others ultimately lead him to the realization of his tragic destiny. In the end, Oedipus blinds himself upon discovering the truth, a physical representation of the inner turmoil and suffering he experiences as a result of his actions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex" presents the character of Oedipus as a tragic hero whose excessive pride and determination to uncover the truth ultimately lead to his downfall. Through his arrogance and refusal to accept the warnings of others, Oedipus seals his tragic fate and fulfills the prophecy that ultimately destroys him. The story of Oedipus serves as a timeless example of the tragic hero archetype and the enduring power of fate in shaping human destiny.

1. Sophocles. "Oedipus Rex." Translated by Ian Johnston, Richer Resources Publications, 2005.