Sophocles: Oedipus Rex

Sophocles (c. 496 BCE – 406 BCE) was a celebrated ancient Greek
playwright and poet, best known for his tragedies. He was born in
Colonus, near Athens, Greece, and was one of the three great tragedians
of ancient Athens, alongside Aeschylus and Euripides.
Sophocles wrote more than 120 plays, but only seven of them have
survived. These include "Oedipus Rex," "Antigone," "Electra," "Ajax,"
"Trachinian Women," "Philoctetes," and "Oedipus at Colonus." His
plays were performed at festivals in Athens and were extremely popular,
winning him many prizes.
Sophocles' plays explore themes such as the human condition, the
relationship between the gods and humanity, and the balance between
fate and free will. His characters are complex, and their struggles and
conflicts are used to explore these themes. His work had a profound
impact on Western literature and drama, and he is widely regarded as
one of the greatest playwrights in history.
Why did he write Oedipus Rex?
It is not entirely clear why Sophocles wrote "Oedipus Rex," but it is
likely that he wrote the play for the annual festival of Dionysus, which
was a major cultural event in ancient Athens. The festival included
theatrical performances, and the plays presented were often
commissioned by the city's wealthy citizens or by the state.
In terms of the play's content, "Oedipus Rex", also known as Oedipus
the King, tells the story of a king who unwittingly kills his father and
marries his mother, fulfilling a prophecy that he had tried to avoid. The
play explores the themes of fate, free will, and the limits of human

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knowledge. It also highlights the dangers of pride and arrogance, as
Oedipus' downfall is caused in part by his own hubris.
It is likely that Sophocles was influenced by earlier versions of the
Oedipus myth, which were popular in Greek literature and culture.
However, his version of the story is notable for its psychological depth,
its exploration of complex moral issues, and its sophisticated use of
dramatic irony. It has remained one of the most celebrated works of
Greek tragedy, and continues to be performed and studied today.
Detailed synopsis of Oedipus rex
"Oedipus Rex," also known as "Oedipus the King," is a Greek tragedy
by Sophocles that tells the story of Oedipus, the king of Thebes, who
discovers that he has unwittingly fulfilled a prophecy that he would kill
his father and marry his mother.
The plot of Oedipus Rex is a straightforward interpretation of a Greek
myth. When the king and queen of Thebes give birth to a son, Oedipus,
an oracle tells them that their child will kill his father. To avoid this the
king, Laius, orders the child to have his feet pinned and then be left for
dead. This is done, but a shepherd comes across the boy and brings him
to the childless Corinthian king.
Oedipus is raised as the prince of Corinth but hears a rumor that he's not
the son of the king. His parents reassure him, but he still isn't sure so he
asks the oracle of Delphi. He's told he will marry his mother and shed
the blood of his father, so he flees Corinth hoping to save his parents. At
a crossroads he and another man argue over who goes first and Oedipus
kills the other man.
When Oedipus goes on to Thebes he's asked to solve the Riddle of the
Sphinx: 'What moves on all fours in its infancy, on two legs in its prime,

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and on three in old age?~. He correctly answers, 'Man.' As a reward
Oedipus is made the king and given the widowed queen as his bride.
When a plague hits his new kingdom, Oedipus is told that it's the gods
punishing Thebes because Laius' killer was never found. Oedipus calls
on Tiresias, the seer, who tells Oedipus that he killed the king. His wife
tells him not to believe him, though, because a seer had told her that her
son would kill the king, but everyone knows that a group of bandits
killed him instead.
Oedipus is already suspicious that he might have killed Laius, but when
he hears that bandits, and not one man, murdered him, he wants to
confirm it. He orders the only survivor to court and asks him who killed
the king. The survivor names Oedipus. With the tragedy revealed,
Oedipus' wife hangs herself and Oedipus blinds himself before being
exiled from Thebes.
What is the meaning and purpose of themes
Themes are central ideas or messages that are conveyed through a work
of literature, art, or other form of expression. They are often universal,
meaning that they can be understood and appreciated by people from
different cultures and backgrounds.
The theme is the central idea uncovered throughout the texts and may
have direct or indirect meanings. The literary themes are universal and
apply throughout the text. The whole works of literature contain themes
examining abstract notions in relation to life experiences. The themes
are relevant in certain periods to a group of people. Themes transcend
borders. They are universal. The main themes in literature are those
ideas which hold more importance than words. These are repeated in
every chapter of the manuscript and are important for characters
interaction or character development.
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The purpose of themes is to help convey the deeper meaning and
significance of a work. They can help readers or viewers to connect with
the work on a more emotional or intellectual level, by providing insight
into the underlying messages or ideas that are being communicated.
Themes can also help to create a sense of unity and coherence within a
work, by providing a framework for the various elements of the work to
fit together.
The meaning of a theme can vary depending on the work and the context
in which it is presented. For example, a theme of love in one work might
emphasize the joy and happiness that comes from romantic
relationships, while in another work it might explore the darker aspects
of love, such as jealousy or heartbreak. Similarly, a theme of justice
might be presented in different ways, such as through a legal system, a
moral code, or an individual's sense of right and wrong.
Overall, themes are a powerful tool for conveying meaning and making
connections between different elements of a work, and they can help to
create a deeper and more meaningful experience for readers, viewers,
and other audiences.
There are several terms that are used interchangeably with the term
"theme" in literary analysis and criticism. Some of these terms
include:
1. Motif: A motif is a recurring element, such as an image, symbol, or
idea, that contributes to the overall theme of a work.
2. Subject: The subject of a work refers to its topic or the central idea
that it addresses. While a theme is a broader idea that encompasses
the work as a whole, the subject is more specific.

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 3. Message: The message of a work is the author's or artist's intended
meaning or purpose, often communicated through the work's
themes.
4. Moral: A moral is a lesson or ethical principle that is conveyed
through a work, often through its themes.
5. Thesis: In academic writing, a thesis statement is the main
argument or central idea of an essay or research paper. Like a
theme, a thesis statement conveys an overarching message or
meaning.
While these terms are related to themes, they can have slightly different
connotations and uses depending on the context and the specific work
being analyzed.
The theme of polarities in "Oedipus Rex" by Sophocles is a central
aspect of the play. Throughout the story, there are numerous opposing
forces that are presented to the audience, including:
1. Light vs. Darkness: This polarity is presented through the frequent
references to blindness and sight. Oedipus, who is ultimately
revealed to be blind to the truth, is contrasted with Tiresias, who is
blind but can see the truth.
2. Fate vs. Free Will: This polarity is at the heart of the play. Oedipus
is constantly struggling to understand whether he has control over
his life or if his fate has already been determined. The play
ultimately suggests that fate is inescapable.
3. Truth vs. Ignorance: This polarity is closely related to the theme of
sight and blindness. Oedipus is initially praised for his ability to
solve the riddle of the Sphinx and to bring truth to the city of

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 Thebes. However, he is ultimately revealed to be ignorant of his
own true identity.
4. Pride vs. Humility: This polarity is represented by Oedipus' hubris,
or excessive pride, which ultimately leads to his downfall. This is
contrasted with the humility shown by Tiresias and Jocasta, who
both caution Oedipus against his reckless behavior.
Overall, the theme of polarities in "Oedipus Rex" emphasizes the
importance of balance and moderation in life. The play suggests that
a failure to recognize and reconcile opposing forces can lead to
tragedy and destruction.

THEMES
1. Fate vs. Free Will: One of the primary themes of the play is the
tension between fate and free will. Oedipus is destined to kill his
father and marry his mother, and his efforts to avoid this fate only
serve to bring it about. This theme is illustrated throughout the
play, such as when the Chorus says, "It was Apollo, friends,
Apollo, who brought to fulfillment all these things, playing with
the destiny of man" (lines 1236-1238). The consequence of
Oedipus' actions is the fulfillment of the prophecy, despite his
attempts to avoid it.
The theme of free will is also present in the play. While it is
ultimately impossible to escape one's fate, the characters do have
some agency and choice in their actions, and their decisions
ultimately lead to the tragic events of the play.
 "I will fight for him as if he were my father, stop at nothing to
track down the killer" (lines 253-254). In this quote, Oedipus

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 shows his determination to solve the mystery of Laius' murder and
bring the killer to justice. However, this decision ultimately leads
to his own downfall, as he discovers that he is the killer he has
been seeking.
Fate versus free will is the central theme of the play. The story
revolves around Oedipus' attempt to use his own free will to escape
the prophecy given to him by the Oracle of Delphi. The oracle
prophesied that Oedipus' fate was to marry his mother and kill his
father. Thinking this referred to the parents in Corinth that raised
him, he fled the city of Corinth. Oedipus thought he was exercising
free will; in reality, he was following the exact path that fate had
determined for him. In his flight from Corinth, Oedipus runs into a
man at crossroads who pushes him from the road. In his anger,
Oedipus kills the man. As it turns out, this was King Laius of
Thebes, who was Oedipus' true birth father.
Queen Jocasta, his birth mother, whom Oedipus married upon his
arrival in Thebes, also attempted to enact free will and escape fate.
At the birth of their son, Jocasta and Laius received a prophecy
that their son would grow up to kill Laius. The couple attempted to
prevent this fate by abandoning the baby to die. Unbeknownst to
them, a shepherd saved the baby and eventually brought him to
Corinth, where the king and queen of Corinth raised him as their
own.
At the end of the play, frustrated by his inability to escape his fate,
Oedipus attempts to gain control over his own life in a final and
desperate act of free will, gouging out his own eyes. In this act,
Oedipus freed himself from having to see the pain that his fate
caused his family.

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 The ancient Greeks believed that their gods could see the future,
and that certain people could access this information. Prophets or
seers, like blind Tiresias, saw visions of things to come. Oracles,
priests who resided at the temples of gods—such as the oracle to
Apollo at Delphi—were also believed to be able to interpret the
gods' visions and give prophecies to people who sought to know
the future. During the fifth century B.C.E., however, when
Sophocles was writing his plays, intellectuals within Athenian
society had begun to question the legitimacy of the oracles and of
the traditional gods. Some of this tension is plain to see in Oedipus
Rex, which hinges on two prophecies. The first is the prophecy
received by King Laius of Thebes that he would have a son by
Queen Jocasta who would grow up to kill his own father. The
second is the prophecy that Oedipus received that he would kill his
father and marry his mother. Laius, Jocasta, and Oedipus all work
to prevent the prophecies from coming to pass, but their efforts to
thwart the prophecies are what actually bring the prophecies to
completion.
This raises a question at the heart of the play: does Oedipus have
any choice in the matter? He ends up killing his father and
marrying his mother without knowing it—in fact, when he is trying
to avoid doing these very things. Does he have free will—the
ability to choose his own path—or is everything in life
predetermined? Jocasta argues that the oracles are a sham because
she thinks the prediction that her son would kill her husband never
came to pass. When she finds out otherwise, she kills herself.
In Oedipus Rex, Oedipus has fulfilled his terrible prophecy long
ago, but without knowing it. He has already fallen into his fate.
One could argue that he does have free will, however, in his
decision to pursue the facts about his past, despite many
suggestions that he let it go. In this argument, Oedipus's
destruction comes not from his deeds themselves but from his
persistent efforts to learn the truth, through which he reveals the
true nature of those terrible deeds. Oedipus himself makes a

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 different argument at the end of the play, when he says that his
terrible deeds were fated, but that it was he alone who chose to
blind himself. Here, Oedipus is arguing that while it is impossible
to avoid one's fate, how you respond to your fate is a matter of free
will.
A major theme in Sophocles's plays is the idea that the gods, not
human beings, determine the fate of an individual. Sophocles was a
religious man who did not question who was in control. His plays
reflect his belief that suffering serves as a way to clarify the power
of the gods and their intentions for humanity. In Oedipus Rex fate
is unavoidable, no matter what lies the characters tell others and
themselves and no matter what they do to ensure that they escape
their destinies. In fact, the attempt to escape fate seems to be the
very thing that ensures that fate is inescapable. Trying to avoid,
rather than accept, one's fate increases one's suffering even more.
This idea does not, however, eradicate free will and the choices
characters make over the courses of their lives. A clear tension
exists between fate and free will in Greek tragedy, illustrated by
the perpetual conflict between humans and the gods.
Jocasta also tries to control events to avoid the same prophecy in
an unimaginably awful way. She and Laius put a pin through the
ankles of their own son, causing him to be lame and scarred for
life, and order a shepherd to leave him exposed on a rock in the
wilderness, which will surely mean his death. But Jocasta is so
determined to avoid her fate that she goes one step further and tells
the shepherd to kill the baby instead. The shepherd cannot go
through with such a horrible, heartless order and disobeys Jocasta,
handing the baby over to a messenger to give to Polybus and
Merope. That baby is, of course, Oedipus. Jocasta's attempt to
orchestrate infanticide secures her fate: the gods are not happy with
that shameful act. Jocasta even tries to stop Oedipus from knowing
the full story, and she is willing to accept her fate and suffer in
silence as long as Oedipus does not know he is the one she tried to

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 have killed. However, neither one can avoid fate nor the
knowledge they have come face to face with.

2. Blindness and Sight: Another important theme in the play is the

contrast between blindness and sight, both literal and metaphorical.
Oedipus is literally blind at the end of the play, having blinded
himself after realizing the truth about his past. However, earlier in
the play, Oedipus is also metaphorically blind, as he refuses to see
the truth that is right in front of him. This theme is highlighted in
conversations between Oedipus and Tiresias, the blind prophet,
such as when Tiresias says, "I say that you, with both your eyes,
are blind" (lines 446-447). The consequences of this theme are that
those who are blind to the truth suffer, while those who can see it
are able to gain knowledge and insight.
Sophocles uses the theme of sight versus blindness ironically in the
play. The only character who can truly see and understand the
world is the blind prophet Tiresias. Meanwhile, those such as
Oedipus and Jocasta are blind to the truth.
This theme examines the concept that people will only see what
they want to see. Tiresias informs Oedipus that it was he who
killed King Laius. He also offers Oedipus a warning, through
prophetic riddles, that he will one day become blind when he
comes to see the truth. Oedipus refuses to acknowledge the truth,
and he sends Tiresias off as he chooses to remain in willful
ignorance.
Tiresias first informs him of his fate by speaking in riddles. He
tells Oedipus, ''Eyes hast though, but thy deeds thou canst not see.''
In this, Tiresias tells Oedipus is blind even though he may have
working eyes. He then warns him that this will not always be the

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 case, when he says, ''in thine eyes now light, but then darkness.''
Oedipus responds to Tiresias' riddles with anger. He asks the
prophet to speak plainly, and so he does:
''Thou dost seek

With threats and loud proclaim the man whose hand

Slew Laius. Lo, I tell thee, he doth stand

Here. He is called a stranger, but these days

Shall prove him Theban true, nor shall he praise

His birthright. Blind, who once had seeing eyes,

Beggared, who once had riches, in strange guise,

His staff groping before him, he shall crawl

O'er unknown earth, and voices round him call:

Behold the brother-father of his own

Children, the seed, the sower and the sown,

Shame to his mother's blood, and to his sire

Son, murderer, incest-worker.''

In this passage, Tiresias directly tells Oedipus that he is the man

who slew Laius. He also prophesizes that he will one day be blind
and beggared, which comes true by the end of the play. Oedipus
gouges out his own eyes, blinding himself. He also asks to be
exiled, eventually becoming a beggar.
When Oedipus publicly declares his intention to solve the mystery
of King Laius's murder, he says, "I'll start again—I'll bring it all to
light myself." Oedipus's vision and intelligence have made him a
great king of Thebes—he solved the riddle of the Sphinx and

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 revitalized the city. But he is blind to the truth about his own life. It
takes the blind prophet, Tiresias, to point out his ignorance and to
plant the first seeds of doubt in Oedipus's mind. When Oedipus
mocks Tiresias's blindness, Tiresias predicts that Oedipus himself
will soon be blind. And indeed, when Oedipus learns the full
story—that he has killed his father and married his mother—he
gouges out his eyes. He learns the nature of fate and the power of
the gods, but at a great cost. And though he is blinded, he has
learned to see something he could not see before.
3. Knowledge and Ignorance: Related to the theme of blindness and
sight is the theme of knowledge and ignorance. Oedipus is a man
who prides himself on his intelligence and his ability to solve
problems, but his inability to see the truth ultimately leads to his
downfall. This theme is explored in the play through conversations
between Oedipus and Jocasta, such as when Jocasta says, "Many a
man before you, in his dreams, has shared his mother's bed" (lines
1059-1060), but Oedipus is unable to understand the truth of her
words until much later. The consequences of this theme are that
those who lack knowledge and insight are vulnerable to
manipulation and deception.
The theme of knowledge is closely tied to the theme of fate in
"Oedipus Rex." The play emphasizes the importance of knowledge
and self-awareness, as characters who are ignorant or blind to the
truth suffer tragic consequences.
 "But I, I never saw him. And if he hadn't come / here to challenge
me to clear his father's name, / I'd never have known about Laius"
(lines 747-749). In this quote, Oedipus reflects on his own
ignorance and blindness to the truth of his situation. His lack of
knowledge ultimately leads to his tragic downfall.
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 4. Pride and Hubris: Another theme of the play is the danger of
excessive pride-hubris. Oedipus is a powerful and intelligent king,
but his arrogance and belief in his own abilities lead him to make
terrible mistakes. This theme is highlighted in conversations
between Oedipus and the Chorus, such as when the Chorus says,
"How great the fear and how terrible the pride of those who are
lords of all that they survey" (lines 881-882). The consequences of
this theme are that those who are too proud and arrogant are
doomed to fall, and that humility and self-awareness are necessary
for true wisdom.
Though Oedipus is not arrogant, he takes great pride in his past
exploit of defeating the Sphinx. He brags it at the beginning “I am
Oedipus,” and tells Priest of Zeus and people that he has solved the
famous riddle. He further assures his people that he would again
find the culprit living in Thebes, who is the cause of the plague.
However, as the prophecy predicts that Oedipus is the culprit, he
leaves the city as a blind man, after gouging his eyes out. That is
why Chorus comments that no person should feel happy until his
end.
Hubris is a Greek term used for excessive pride or over-
confidence. This is another theme of the play, Oedipus Rex.
Oedipus, from the very start of the play, shows hubris in
his claim of knowing everything after defeating the Sphinx. He
tells the people that he has solved the riddle in the past and that he
would find the culprit and solve the plague too. However, when he
discovers that he is the culprit his hubris or the extreme pride
breaks him apart.

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 Pride figures prominently in many Greek tragedies. It is closely
related to the Greek idea of hubris, a character trait that leads a
person to disregard the limits of human potential preordained by
the gods. Oedipus is an intelligent man, but his pride gets the best
of him.
Oedipus's pride ultimately leads to his downfall. Hamartia, often
referred to as the tragic/fatal flaw, is one of the key aspects of
Greek tragedy. The main characters in many tragedies are nearly
superhuman but burdened with tragic flaws that prevent them from
becoming godlike. Oedipus's tragic flaw is his pride. By attempting
to escape the prophecy dictated by the gods, he ends up fulfilling
it. In doing so, Oedipus becomes guilty of hubris as he tries to
overcome his human limitations and rescind the prophecy.
Like Oedipus, Jocasta is guilty of pride and hubris in her attempt to
alter fate and later deny it at various points. She sends Oedipus to
die as an infant hoping to escape the prophecy. Many years later,
when Oedipus reveals to her the prophecy he had heard, she denies
it, yet she continues to pray at the altar of Apollo. When she
realizes the prophecy has been fulfilled, she tries to shield Oedipus
from the truth. Incapable of coping with the prophecy's fulfillment,
she commits suicide.
5. Guilt and Responsibility: Finally, the theme of guilt and
responsibility runs throughout the play, as Oedipus gradually
comes to realize the terrible things he has done and the role he has
played in his own downfall. This theme is explored in
conversations between Oedipus and the Chorus, such as when the
Chorus says, "I think that no man can be said to be happy until that
day when he carries his happiness down to the grave in peace"
(lines 1688-1690). The consequences of this theme are that those
who act without regard for the consequences are responsible for
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 the harm they cause, and that recognizing one's guilt is an
important step towards redemption and forgiveness.
6. Power and Corruption: The theme of power and corruption is
evident in the play as Oedipus abuses his power as king and
becomes corrupt in his search for the truth. This theme is explored
through conversations between Oedipus and Creon, such as when
Creon says, "Think, then, what a dreadful thing it is to yield to
force and violence" (lines 1308-1309). The consequences of this
theme are that those who abuse their power become corrupt and
ultimately face a downfall.
Power corrupts men. The play, Oedipus Rex, shows this through
the character of Oedipus. His words express power over people
like Creon and Delphi. He also uses his power by forcing Tiresias
and the shepherd to speak the truth about the child that he was
given to throw on the mountains. Therefore, power is another
theme of the play.
7. Innocence and Guilt: The theme of innocence and guilt is
prominent in the play as Oedipus slowly uncovers the truth about
his past and realizes that he is guilty of the crimes he has been
seeking to solve. This theme is explored in conversations between
Oedipus and Jocasta, such as when Jocasta says, "Why should man
fear since chance is all in all for him, and he can clearly foreknow
nothing?" (lines 943-944). The consequences of this theme are that
innocence is not a guarantee, and that guilt can be hidden even
from those who commit it.
8. Truth and Deception: The theme of truth and deception is central
to the play, as Oedipus is repeatedly deceived by those around him
and must ultimately confront the truth about his own past. This

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 theme is explored in conversations between Oedipus and Tiresias,
such as when Tiresias says, "I say you live in shameful intimacy
with one you should not love, and in this you have children" (lines
419-421). The consequences of this theme are that truth is not
always easy to discern, and that deception can have terrible
consequences.
9. Persistence in Finding the Truth
Oedipus displays a constant persistence in his pursuit of the truth,
even when it lies directly in front of him. From the beginning of
Oedipus Rex, he determines that he will seek out King Laius'
killer. Oedipus spends the majority of the play searching for the
culprit, even though Tiresias told him that it was Oedipus himself
who committed the murder. Finally, near the end of the play,
Oedipus discovers enough evidence to figure out the truth on his
own.
The terrible deeds that are Oedipus's undoing actually took place
long before the play begins. King Laius has been dead for many
years, Oedipus has ruled for some time, and his marriage to Jocasta
has produced four children. They might have all remained happy in
their ignorance had the plague not come to Thebes and the oracle
not commanded that the murderer of Laius be found. Good king
that he is, Oedipus swears he will find the murderer. Every step of
the way, people are reluctant to speak and try to tell him that it
would be better if the past were left alone. Creon suggests that
they discuss the oracle behind closed doors, not in front of
everyone, but Oedipus wants to show that he is open to the truth
and keeps no secrets from his people. Tiresias refuses to say what
he knows, and only speaks when he has been insulted and accused
of treachery. Jocasta begs Oedipus to cease his investigations. The
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 old shepherd gives Oedipus the final pieces of the puzzle only
when threatened with death. In his desire to seek out the truth and
save his people from the plague, Oedipus becomes his own
prosecutor, and then his own judge and punisher.

10. Action vs. Reflection: In his quest for truth, Oedipus is a man
of constant action. When the priests come to ask for his help, he
has already dispatched Creon to the oracle to find out what the
gods suggest. When the chorus suggests that he consult Tiresias,
Oedipus has already sent for him. Oedipus decides quickly and
acts quickly—traits his audience would have seen as admirable and
in the best tradition of Athenian leadership. But Oedipus's
tendency to decide and act quickly also leads him down a path to
his own destruction. He becomes convinced that Tiresias and
Creon are plotting to overthrow him, though he has no evidence to
prove it.
At several stages where he might have paused to reflect on the
outcome of his actions—where he might have sifted through the
evidence before him and decided not to pursue the question
further, or not in such a public way—he forges onward, even
threatening to torture the reluctant shepherd to make him speak.
And it is the shepherds words that irrefutably condemn Oedipus.
Even here, his will to act doesn't end. Discovering Jocasta, his wife
and mother, dead, Oedipus quickly takes his punishment into his
own hands and gauges out his eyes.
11. The Role of the Gods: The theme of the role of the gods is
explored in the play, as Oedipus struggles with the idea that his
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 fate is determined by the gods. This theme is evident in
conversations between Oedipus and the Chorus, such as when the
Chorus says, "All-seeing Zeus, who wears the golden crown, hear
us and guide us, lord of the lightning's blaze" (lines 1223-1224).
The consequences of this theme are that the gods are a powerful
and sometimes unpredictable force, and that mortals are subject to
their will.
12. Power and Corruption: The theme of power and corruption is
evident in the play as Oedipus abuses his power as king and
becomes corrupt in his search for the truth. This theme is explored
through conversations between Oedipus and Creon, such as when
Creon says, "Think, then, what a dreadful thing it is to yield to
force and violence" (lines 1308-1309). The consequences of this
theme are that those who abuse their power become corrupt and
ultimately face a downfall.
13. The Consequences of Hubris: The theme of the consequences
of hubris is present in the play, as Oedipus' tragic flaw is his
excessive pride and arrogance. This theme is explored in
conversations between Oedipus and other characters, such as when
he says, "You pray to the gods? Let me grant your prayers" (lines
39-40). The consequences of this theme are that hubris can lead to
downfall and ruin, and that individuals must be humble and
acknowledge their limitations.
14. The Relationship between Individual and Society: The theme
of the relationship between individual and society is present in the
play, as Oedipus' actions have consequences not only for himself,
but for the entire city of Thebes. This theme is explored in
conversations between Oedipus and other characters, such as when
he says, "I grieve for these, my people, more than I fear for my
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 own life" (lines 138-139). The consequences of this theme are that
individuals have a responsibility to their communities, and that the
actions of one person can have far-reaching consequences for
others.
15. The Role of the Chorus: The theme of the role of the Chorus
is present in the play, as the Chorus serves as a voice of
commentary and reflection on the events of the play. This theme is
explored in conversations between the Chorus and Oedipus, such
as when the Chorus says, "Great wealth and power, alas, / Have no
survival value" (lines 1557-1558). The consequences of this theme
are that the Chorus provides a valuable perspective on the events
of the play, and that its role is to provide insight and commentary
on the actions of the characters.
16. The Limits of Reason: The theme of the limits of reason is
present in the play, as Oedipus' attempts to use his intellect and
reasoning to solve the mystery of King Laius' murder are
ultimately futile. This theme is explored in conversations between
Oedipus and other characters, such as when he says, "What man
can be free of fear, when he looks into the depths of his own fate?"
(lines 1200-1201). The consequences of this theme are that reason
has its limitations, and that there are some things that are beyond
human understanding.
17. The Power of Fate: The theme of the power of fate is present
in the play, as Oedipus' tragic destiny is ultimately determined by
the gods. This theme is explored in conversations between Oedipus
and the Chorus, such as when Oedipus says, "Fate is strong, and
there is no escape from it" (lines 1057-1058). The consequences of
this theme are that individuals are subject to the whims of fate, and

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 that their actions may ultimately be determined by forces beyond
their control.
The theme of fate is a central one in "Oedipus Rex." The play
portrays the idea that individuals cannot escape their destiny and
that fate is ultimately inescapable. This is shown in the prophecy
given to Oedipus that he would kill his father and marry his
mother, which ultimately comes true despite his attempts to avoid
it.
"And if you find I've lied, from this day on / call the prophet blind.
Don't believe in any oracles or prophecies / or anything else" (lines
68-71). In this quote, Oedipus expresses his belief that he can
escape his fate and avoid the prophecy. However, this ultimately
proves to be futile, as the prophecy comes true despite his efforts.

18. Tragic Consequences: The theme of tragic consequences is

central to "Oedipus Rex." The play shows the devastating effects
of attempting to escape one's destiny and the tragic consequences
that follow.
 "So, you mock my blindness? Let me tell you this. / You with your
precious eyes, you're blind to the corruption of your life" (lines
479-481). In this quote, Tiresias chastises Oedipus for his
ignorance and blindness to the truth of his situation. Oedipus'
attempts to escape his fate ultimately lead to his tragic downfall.
19. Origins and children: Oedipus embarks upon a search for his
own origins, and - though he does not realize it - for his real
parents. As the child of his own wife, and thus father and brother
to his children, Sophocles explores various interrelationships

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 between where things began and who fathered who. Similarly, the
play itself works backwards towards a revelatory start: the story
has, in effect, already happened - and Oedipus is forced to discover
his own history.
20. Plague and health: Thebes at the start of the play is suffering
from terrible blight which renders the fields and the women barren.
The oracle tells Oedipus at the start of the play that the source of
this plague is Laius' murderer (Oedipus himself). Health then, only
comes with the end of the play and Oedipus' blindness. Again,
'plague' is both literal and metaphorical. There is a genuine plague,
but also, to quote Hamlet, there might be "something rotten" in the
moral state of Thebes.
21. Prophecy, oracles, and predestination: The origins of this
play in the Oedipus myth (see 'Oedipus and Myth') create an
compelling question about foreknowledge and expectation. The
audience who knew the myth would know from the start far more
than Oedipus himself - hence a strong example of dramatic irony.
Moreover, one of the themes the play considers as a corollary is
whether or not you can escape your fate. In trying to murder her
son, Jocasta finds him reborn as her husband. Running from
Corinth, from his parents, Oedipus murders his father on the way.
It seems that running away from one's fate ultimately ensures that
one is only running towards it.

22. Youth and age: 'Man' is the answer to the Sphinx's question,
and the aging of man is given key significance in the course of the
play. Oedipus himself goes from childlike innocence to a blinded
man who needs to be led by his children. Oedipus, it might be said,
ages with the discovery of his own shortcomings as a man. In

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 learning of his own weaknesses and frailties, he loses his
innocence immediately.

Sophocles uses motifs, or dominant ideas woven throughout a literary

work, to support his themes. A willingness to accept fate as represented
by the oracle allows characters to live in the light. In contrast, the denial
of fate forces characters to live in literal and figurative darkness.
Oracle
The most important motif in Oedipus Rex is that of the oracle, which
appears several times throughout the play to help the characters
determine the truth even if it is not what they want to hear. The oracle,
as well as Teiresias the prophet (who serves the purpose of the oracle),
represents the fate of human beings as determined by the gods.
Light versus Darkness
Another motif is that of light versus darkness. This motif helps to
reinforce the theme of blindness. At the start of the play, Oedipus says
that, to avenge Laius, he will "shed light on darkness" and that "with the
gods' help this will all come to light successfully, or else will prove our
common ruin." His words link the concept of light with the revelation of
knowledge and suggest that without knowledge darkness will prevail in
the form of ignorance of the reason for the plague, causing "common
ruin." Later the angry Oedipus tells Teiresias he lives in "endless
darkness of the night" and thus cannot really affect someone who "can
glimpse daylight." By the end of the play, when Oedipus discovers
Teiresias has been right all along, he says, "O light, let me look at you
one final time," meaning he will either die or blind himself, plunging
into permanent darkness.

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Triple crossroad
Oedipus killed King Laius at a place "where three roads meet," or a
triple crossroad. Typically, crossroads symbolize a choice to be made.
Yet because the murder of Laius occurred in the distant past. Oedipus's
choice has already been made, and so the triple crossroads becomes a
symbol not of choice but of fate.
Swollen ankles
As an adult, Oedipus still limps from a childhood injury to his ankles.
This limp, and his very name—which means "swollen ankle," and which
was given to him because of a childhood ankle injury—are clues to his
own identity that Oedipus fails to notice. As such, Oedipus's ankles
become symbols of his fate. His ankles, literally, are the marks of that
fate.

Here are the characters in "Oedipus Rex" that emphasize the

various themes of the play, in order of sequence, along with relevant
quotations:
1. The Chorus: The Chorus serves as a collective voice, representing
the people of Thebes. They emphasize the theme of the city's
suffering and the need for a resolution. For example, in their
opening lines, they say, "Now our city reeks with the smoke of
burning incense, / Altars flame, and everywhere, / Sickening
hymns are heard." (lines 1-3)
2. Oedipus: Oedipus is the protagonist of the play and emphasizes
several themes throughout. Some examples include:

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  The theme of the quest for truth: "But my spirit grieves for the city,
for myself and all of you." (lines 36-37)
 The theme of the fallibility of authority: "So you have come to
fight against me, / You and your friend the prophet, the
professional liar?" (lines 406-407)
 The theme of the consequences of hubris: "The city is sick, and I
am its physician" (line 243)
 The theme of the burden of guilt: "I say I did not know, and you
persist / In saying I did it. But if you are right, / And if I really did
kill Laius, / Then may the curse I laid on myself strike me!" (lines
1094-1097)
 The theme of the inevitability of fate: "Apollo said / That I was
fated to lie with my mother and show / To daylight an accursed
breed which men would shudder / To behold - and I brought this
curse to completion." (lines 1318-1321)
3. Creon: Creon is Oedipus' brother-in-law and represents the theme
of loyalty. He is willing to speak out against Oedipus when he
believes it is necessary, but he remains loyal to the city of Thebes.
For example, he says to Oedipus, "I am not the man to bear /
Covertly what I hate and make a show of friendship." (lines 652-
653). He serves as a foil to Oedipus. He is rational and level-
headed, in contrast to Oedipus's impulsiveness and emotional
reactions. Creon's role in the play is to provide a contrast to
Oedipus and to highlight the theme of reason versus emotion. He
says, "I am not the man to treasure my pride at the cost of a city's
welfare." (lines 175-176)

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 4. Jocasta: Jocasta is Oedipus' wife and mother and represents the
theme of the inevitability of fate. She initially tries to dissuade
Oedipus from investigating his past, saying, "Stop - in the name of
god, / If you love your own life, call off this search!" (lines 793-
794). Later, when she realizes the truth of their relationship, she
laments, "O light, may I look on you for the last time!" (line 1226)
5. The Shepherd: The Shepherd is a witness to Oedipus' past and
represents the theme of the power of destiny. He reveals to
Oedipus that he was the baby that was given away and that his
prophecy has come true. He says, "I pitied the little child, master,
and I took him. / But I'm the man you want - I gave you the child."
(lines 1296-1297)
6. Jocasta: Jocasta is Oedipus' wife and mother and represents the
theme of the inevitability of fate. She initially tries to dissuade
Oedipus from investigating his past, saying, "Stop - in the name of
god, / If you love your own life, call off this search!" (lines 793-
794). Later, when she realizes the truth of their relationship, she
laments, "O light, may I look on you for the last time!" (line 1226)
Jocasta is Oedipus's wife and mother, although neither of them is
aware of this until later in the play. Jocasta serves as a symbol of
the fragility of human knowledge and the danger of attempting to
uncover the truth. She also highlights the theme of fate versus free
will, as she believes that she and Oedipus can avoid their fate by
taking action to prevent it. Jocasta says, "No skill in the world,
nothing human can penetrate the future." (lines 951-952)
7. The Priest: The Priest is the first character to speak in the play, and
his role is to represent the suffering and desperation of the people
of Thebes. His speech sets the tone for the entire play and

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 highlights the theme of suffering that pervades it. He says, "Our
ship of state, which recent storms have threatened to destroy, has
come once more into safe harbor at your hands." (lines 1-3)
8. Tiresias: Tiresias is a blind prophet who emphasizes the theme of
the blindness of humans to the truth. Tiresias is a blind prophet
who is summoned by Oedipus to reveal the truth about the murder
of Laius. Tiresias is significant to the play because he serves as a
mouthpiece for the gods, and his prophecies come true. He also
represents the theme of blindness and insight, as he is physically
blind but possesses great insight into the truth. Tiresias says, "You
with your precious eyes, you're blind to the corruption of your
life." (lines 473-474)
9. The Messenger from Corinth: The Messenger from Corinth brings
news that Polybus, the man whom Oedipus believes to be his
father, has died. This news leads to Oedipus's realization that he
may not be who he thought he was, and it emphasizes the theme of
identity and the fragility of human knowledge. The Messenger
says, "Polybus was not your father, you are not his son." (lines
1116-1117)
CONCLUSION/IMPORTANCE OF ALL THE THEMES OF HIS
TRAGEDY
The themes of Oedipus Rex are all important and work together to create
a complex and powerful tragedy. Here are some reasons why each of
these themes is significant:
1. Fate vs. Free Will: This theme explores the idea that human beings
may not have complete control over their lives and that some
events may be predetermined. In Oedipus Rex, this theme is
significant because Oedipus is unable to escape his fate despite his
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 best efforts. This theme also highlights the idea that humans may
be responsible for their own downfall, as Oedipus's attempts to
avoid his fate lead directly to his downfall.
2. Knowledge vs. Ignorance: This theme is significant because it
highlights the idea that human knowledge may be limited and that
people may not have a complete understanding of the world around
them. In Oedipus Rex, this theme is central to the play, as
Oedipus's quest for knowledge ultimately leads to his downfall.
The play suggests that ignorance may be preferable to knowledge,
as the truth can be painful and destructive.
3. Sight vs. Blindness: This theme explores the idea that physical
sight may not be enough to gain a complete understanding of the
world. In Oedipus Rex, this theme is significant because Oedipus
is physically blind at the end of the play, but he has gained insight
into the truth about his life. This theme also highlights the idea that
blindness may be a metaphor for ignorance, as those who are blind
may lack knowledge or insight.
4. Power vs. Truth: This theme is significant because it explores the
idea that those in power may be motivated to suppress the truth in
order to maintain their position. In Oedipus Rex, this theme is
central to the play, as the truth about Oedipus's life is suppressed
by those in power in order to maintain social order. This theme
also highlights the idea that the truth may be painful or dangerous,
and those in power may choose to ignore it in order to protect
themselves.
5. Suffering: This theme is significant because it explores the idea
that human beings may be destined to suffer in life. In Oedipus
Rex, this theme is central to the play, as Oedipus suffers greatly as

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 a result of his actions and the actions of those around him. The
play suggests that suffering may be a necessary part of the human
experience and that those who try to avoid it may only bring about
more suffering.
Overall, the themes of Oedipus Rex are important because they explore
fundamental aspects of the human experience, such as the limits of
human knowledge, the role of fate in our lives, and the consequences of
our actions. The play suggests that despite our best efforts, we may be
unable to escape our fate, and that the truth may be painful or dangerous.
It is a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the importance of
humility and self-awareness.
ACTIVITY
Describe names and terms/Oedipus Rex or Oedipus the King
Glossary
Oedipus: King of Thebes, son of Laius and Jocasta. His name is Greek
for "swollen footed."
Apollo/Ismenus: According to the Greek epic Poet Hesiod, Apollo was
the son of Zeus and Leto, and brother of the goddess Artemis. One of the
many shrines in Apollo's honor was by the river Ismenus, which flowed
near Thebes.
As a god associated with light, intelligence, and justice, Apollo was
frequently consulted as an oracle. His Pythian shrine, on the slopes of
Mt. Parnassus in central Greece, was thought to be holy and reliable.
Dionysus: Dionysus was the son of Zeus and Semele-who was the
daughter of Cadmus and thus intimately involved with the House of
Thebes. Dionysus was associated with fertility and the abundance of

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nature and was often accompanied by wildly dancing and celebrating
women, who would have been a rarity in patriarchal Athens.
dramatic irony
Dramatic irony is a situation in which the characters on stage do not
know something (or some of them do not know something) which the
audience does know. Dramatic irony recurs throughout Oedipus - for
instance, when the Messenger suggests that he never killed the young
baby that Jocasta had given him, signifying that he clearly had grown up
to become Oedipus the King. Scars on his feet. Oedipus, however, does
not realize this until much later.
Thebes
Thebes is city in which the play is set and is often set up in classical
literature as the 'other' or 'opposite' to Athens, where the City Dionysia
took place.
patronymic
"Father's name." A way of identifying a character by his or her father.
(Example: "son of Polybus")
epithet
A descriptive phrase used to identify a character. (Examples: "Ox-eyed
Athena," "clever Odysseus.")
Oedipus
The king of Thebes at the beginning of the play.
Laius
The earlier king of Thebes. He was killed before the play begins.

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Jocasta
The queen of Thebes; the widow of Laius; the wife of Oedipus; the
mother of Oedipus.
Creon
The brother of Jocasta; the brother-in-law of Oedipus; the uncle of
Oedipus.
Tiresias
The blind prophet of Thebes. A famous prophet of Thebes, blinded by
Athena after he had seen her naked. In compensation he was later given
the gift of prophecy. He exercised that gift in Thebes, as interpreter of
the strange plague gripping the city.
Delphi: Oracular shrine in central Greece, from which Apollo or his
priests/priestesses often uttered mysterious and influential prophecies.
An oracle is a person or thing considered to provide wise and insightful
counsel or prophetic predictions, most notably including precognition of
the future, inspired by deities. If done through occultic means, it is a
form of divination.
Shrine: a place regarded as holy because of its associations with
a divinity or a sacred person or relic, marked by a building or other
construction.
Sphinx: Egyptian symbolic creature with a lion’s body and the head of a
woman. The sphinx had been tormenting travelers outside Thebes with a
riddling question: “What walks on four feet in the morning, two feet at
noon, and three feet at night?” If the person could not answer correctly,
the sphinx killed and ate the traveler. Only Oedipus was able to answer

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this riddle: “man”, because he crawls as a baby, walks as an adult, and
walks with a cane as an old man.
Polybus
The king of Corinth; the man that Oedipus thinks is his father.
Merope
The queen of Corinth; the woman that Oedipus thinks is his mother.
Chorus
A group of old men who advise the king of Thebes.
Choragos
The leader of the chorus.
Cithaeron
The mountain where Oedipus was left as a child. Also, a place where
flocks of sheep from Thebes and Corinth are taken to graze.
Thebes
City in Greece where Oedipus is king. The setting for the play.
Corinth
The city in Greece where Oedipus grew up. Home of Polybus and
Merope.

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