"The Road from Colonus"

Paper Summary:

The purpose of this paper is to introduce, discuss, and analyze the short story "The Road from Colonus" by E.M. Forster. Specifically the paper considers the dreams, plans and intentions of the protagonist, Mr. Lucas, in the story. It then discusses the discrepancy between these dreams and plans and what happens in reality in his life. The paper concludes by describing the story as a tragedy and giving reasons for this analysis.

From the Paper:

"Forster also alludes to the Greek tragedy of Oedipus early in the story. In fact, Mr. Lucas (Oedipus) refers to his daughter as "Antigone" sometimes. Antigone was Oedipus' daughter, and wandered the world with her father after he discovered the ghastly truth about his own life. He had murdered his father and married his mother before he knew who they were. It is interesting that Lucas compares himself to this tragic figure who banishes himself from society forever after he learns what he has done. In the end, Mr. Lucas is the same type of tragic figure. He has had his moment of epiphany and understanding, (just as Oedipus had when he rose to the rank of king), and it has been ripped away from him, just as Oedipus' success was ripped away. Mr. Lucas becomes just as tragic as Oedipus because he does not stand up for what he wants and believes in. He allows others to destroy his dream, and that is the tragedy of his personal Greek drama."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Forster, E. M. "The Road from Colonus." Great Novels and Short Stories of E. L. Forster. New York: Carroll & Graf Publishers, Inc., 1992. 893-902.

More papers on "The Road from Colonus":

• Essay # 87593 : "The Road from Rio"
• Essay # 73752 : "The Road from Coorain"
• Analytical Essay # 133873 : "Analysis of "The Road"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: