Sophocles' "Oedipus Tyrannus"

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that Sophocles' play "Oedipus Tyrannus" asks the question whether Oedipus could have used free will to stop the fulfillment of the prophesy concerning his life and, if not, whether he deserved his self-imposed fate at the end of the play. The paper points out that one of the central flaws in Oedipus' character is his confidence, stubbornness and pride in himself, which led to his fate in the end. The paper concludes that Oedipus cannot be regarded as guilty but rather a victim of forces outside of his control.

Table of Content:
Character
Fate vs. Free Will
Oedipus' Guilt

From the Paper:

"The audience is not presented with the impression that Oedipus' fate is the direct result of any flaw in his character. Indeed, the people of Thebes love and respect him. He also shows his integrity in dealing with those seeking his downfall. Creon for example seeks a private audience with Oedipus, but Oedipus refuses this in the interest of disclosure in matters regarding his people. He also shows himself to be a good king, in placing the interests of his people before his own."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Sophocles. Oedipus Tyrannus. http://www.mala.bc.ca/~johnstoi/sophocles/oedipustheking.htm

More papers on Sophocles' "Oedipus Tyrannus":

• Comparison Essay # 46459 : "Kafka's "The Metamorphosis" and Sophocles' "Oedipus Tyrannus"
• Essay # 88414 : "Oedipus Tyrannus"
• Comparison Essay # 116578 : "Achilles and Oedipus"

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