Oedipus' Fury

Oedipus' Fury

  • Submitted By: jack04
  • Date Submitted: 03/06/2009 6:26 PM
  • Category: English
  • Words: 756
  • Page: 4
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Oedipus’ Fury
Oedipus Rex, written by the poet Sophocles in the golden age of Greek theatre, was described by Aristotle to be the greatest tragedy of all time. As foretold by the title, the play focuses around the character of Oedipus, and from this the viewer, or reader, is able to see deep into the character of the Theban King. As the drama unfolds, and the play moves closer to its unavoidable outcome, many of Oedipus’ more repulsive characteristics come into view. Though Oedipus’ tragic fate was inevitable from the play’s beginning, his characteristic impulsiveness and quick temper ensure that his judgment day arrives much sooner than if he were a calmer man. This is seen at several points during the play, most notably in Oedipus’ interactions with the Theban shepherd, and the blind prophet Tiresias.
Though the prophet Tiresias may be physically blind, but he sees much more than other men; a gift, but also his curse. When Oedipus sends for Tiresias, and asks him what he knows about the murder of Laïos, Tiresias responds cryptically, lamenting his ability to see the truth when the truth brings nothing but pain. This causes Oedipus to come angered and quick tempered, and after Tiresias points this out the King says, “Rage? Why not! / And I’ll tell you what I think: / You planned it, you had it done, you all but / Killed him with your own hands: if you had eyes, / I’d say the crime was yours. And yours alone” (1.127-130). Overcome by his own emotions Tiresias responds by saying, “So? I charge you, then, / Abide by the proclamation you have made: / From this day forth / Never speak again to these men or me; / You yourself are the pollution of this country” (1.131-135). By letting his own anger take him over, Oedipus forces Tiresias to reveal the horrible truth that it was Oedipus himself who murdered Laïos. Though the truth would have eventually emerged, to save the city, Oedipus’ quick temper had caused the past to resurface much sooner than if he had been...

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