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"Oedipus Rex" and "Death of a Salesman", 2004.
An analysis of fate, insanity, and the tragic lives of Oedipus in "Oedipus Rex" by Sophocles and Willy Loman in "Death of a Salesman" by Arthur Miller.
846 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 30.95
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Abstract
Considered as fine works of literature that demonstrate the tragic lives of humanity amidst its flaws and weaknesses, the plays "Oedipus Rex" by Sophocles and "Death of a Salesman" by Arthur Miller aptly reflect, through their protagonist characters, their belief in fate and resulting tragic lives that marked their downfall to insanity and, later, towards death. This paper discusses these three significant concepts: fate, insanity, and tragedy, which are relevant to the main point in both of these plays.
From the Paper
"Similarly, Willy Loman in Miller's famous contemporary play illustrates the modern American who depended heavily on fate-in American culture, it is synonymous with the concept of "American dream." Willy's beliefs that he and his sons, Biff and Happy, are destined to have a life of economic success, just because they have the 'proper social connections' and personality that will endear them to many people, and in fact, towards having a lucky and prosperous life. Willy's obsession to achieve the American dream by relying on pure charisma alone resulted also to his downfall: not only did he fail in his career as a salesman, but his sons also failed to realize their dreams in life, in the belief that their father's promise of an economically successful life will come true (Ardolino, 1998:2). Like Oedipus, Willy's belief in his fate as a successful salesman led to his indolence, which led to his family's increased fall towards poverty, causing him to commit suicide."
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Oedipus Rex, 2008.
This paper examines the painting "Oedipus Rex" (1922) by Max Ernst.
741 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 1 source, APA, $ 26.95
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Abstract
The paper analyzes Max Ernst's artwork "Oedipus Rex" through the Freudian Oedipus complex and through the play "Oedipus Rex" by Sophocles. The paper considers how the surrealistic style of Ernst is used to depict the symbolic sexual tension between father, mother and son, especially in the case of the walnut and the arrow that penetrates it. The paper explains that this type of Freudian approach to painting is part of Ernst's desire to reflect his own inner conflicts.
From the Paper
"The painting Oedipus Rex (1922) by Max Ernst was a direct result of his fascination with birds and the idea of a deeper unconscious mind working beneath the veil of surface thoughts. Ernst believed fervently in the premise of the bird as a symbol of how mankind sought to be free through flight, which acts in accordance with the Freudian concept of condensation. The link between the play by Sophocles and the painting only invigorate this idea, since the premise of the son in Freud's theory is to free himself from fatherly constraints to bond with his mother in intercourse. The nut being portrayed in the painting is clearly a female symbol of the vulva with the male fingers vying to enter it."
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Faith in 'Oedipus Rex', 2006.
A discussion regarding the theme of faith in the play 'Oedipus Rex' by Sophocles.
1,824 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 58.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the play 'Oedipus Rex' by Sophocles. According to the paper, 'Oedipus Rex' is based on a famous Greek myth about the king of Thebes, Oedipus, who fulfilled a prophecy that he would marry his mother and kill his father, despite a lifetime of trying to avoid it. This paper reviews the idea of faith and fate, both which are prevalent throughout this play.
From the Paper
"Jocasta, Oedipus' biological mother, and Laius, his biological father, both had faith in the gods' prophecy that their son was going to destroy them both, and therefore they took action to remove that possibility by attempting to kill him. However, this act of faith cannot be undone later, when it turns out that Oedipus actually survived, and despite their belief that they were safe from the prophecy's predicted doom. After Oedipus has been revealed by Tiresias to be the killer, he goes to Jocasta and tells her that the blind prophet had accused him. Jocasta attempts to comfort him by telling him that all prophets are false, using her own experience with the oracle that prophesied that her husband would be killed by his own son as an example of this. However, Jocasta does not realize that this part of the prophesy has already come to pass. Although she is denouncing her belief in prophesies, she has already acted out of faith in them, or else she would not have attempted to kill her son in the first place, and when she realized the fault of her choice, she will again have faith in prophesies. Jocasta tells Oedipus, "Fear? What should a man fear? It's all chance, chance rules our lives. Not a man on earth can see a day ahead, groping through the dark. Better to live at random, best we can. And as for this marriage with your mother--have no fear. Many a man before you, in his dreams, has shared his mother's bed. Take such things for shadows, nothing at all-- Live, Oedipus, as if there's no tomorrow!" (Sophocles) The audience knows that her faith that Oedipus would not kill his father and marry his mother will be overcome by a tragic return to faith in the gods."
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"Oedipus Rex" and "The Consolation of Philosophy", 2008.
An analysis of the themes of predetermination, chance and free will in Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex" and Anicius Manlius Severinus Boethius' "The Consolation of Philosophy".
2,254 words (approx. 9.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 69.95
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Abstract
This paper embarks on a comparative study between the works of two giants in their fields: Sophocles, one of the three ancient great tragedians in Greece and Anicius Manlius Severinus Boethius, a Christian philosopher of the 6th Century in Rome. The purpose of the study of the two works, i.e., "Oedipus Rex" and "The Consolation of Philosophy", is to determine the differences, if any, in the reconciliation of the concepts of predetermination, chance and free will existing together at the same time in the universe.
Outline
Introduction
Oedipus Rex
The Consolation of Philosophy
Predetermination, Chance and Free Will: Oedipus vs. The Consolation of Philosophy
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The narrator of the story (which one can fairly presumed to be Boethius), was contemplating the hopelessness and anguish of his isolation. He was writing his desperate musings, hoping death will come to end his despair. He was despairing with the Muses of Poetry when suddenly appeared Philosophy, his old friend. Philosophy drives away the Muses of poetry and asks Boethius what is ailing him. To Philosophy, Boethius poured out his grief and anguish over his fate, the unjust accusations against him and his utter ruin. Philosophy condoles with Boethius and sets out to calm and sooth his spirit. But first she wanted to know why he has changed so much so she asked him several questions. She finds that Boethius has forgotten his own nature; that Boethius does not know the destiny or direction of the universe, and; third, that he was ignorant of how the world is being governed. "
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Interpreting 'Oedipus Rex', 2007.
A discussion of universalism vs. historical perspectives in literary critiques of 'Oedipus Rex'.
1,796 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 57.95
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Abstract
'Oedipus Rex', a part of the Theban plays by Sophocles, is among the best-known works from Ancient Greece in today's literary and non-academic worlds. The paper discusses how some argue that only interpretations of 'Oedipus Rex' that use historical contexts as a basis are correct theories, while others argue that a more universalist approach incorporating themes from all time periods in which the work has been read and performed is of equal or greater value. The paper examines the interpretations of Jennifer Lewin, Janet M. Green and Martin Kallich. The paper shows how all of these literary critiques illustrate the way in which universalistic versus historical interpretations of this play are present throughout our modern understanding of the work.
From the Paper
"Jennifer Lewin's "Overview of Oedipus Rex" identifies Oedipus Rex as, arguably, the most important tragedy in all of classical literature. Aristotle used this play, after all, to define the qualities of a successful tragedy, and it has been referred to over and over again by writers that have used it to illustrate historical literature and events, as well as using it to provide inspiration for modern literary criticism. "Freud, for example, helped to shape the direction of twentieth century thought with his 1900 The Interpretation of Dreams, his coinage of the term 'Oedipal Complex' was an integral part of his definition of dreams and imaginative literature as representations of wishes that usually remain hidden during normal social interaction." (Lewin)"
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Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex", 2006.
A summary and analysis of the famous Greek tragedy by Sophocles, "Oedipus Rex".
1,872 words (approx. 7.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 59.95
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Abstract
This paper summarizes the plot of "Oedipus Rex" and analyzes the theme of the tragedy, explaining that the tragic story of Oedipus Rex was meant to serve as a lesson to others. That lesson, the paper explains, was that the punishment visited on the ruler was a sort of proof that the gods did not give special favor to the noble people and that the rules applied to everyone.
From the Paper
"In Greek tragedy, the hero is punished for some sin, made to pay the price even though in many cases what he will do has been foreordained. Aristotle surveyed the drama of his time and developed certain concepts regarding the nature of the tragic hero. The tragic hero must be an important person with a character flaw that causes him to make a great mistake leading to tremendous suffering and a fall from his high status. The tragedy derives from the fact that none of what occurs is the tragic hero's fault, for the tragic flaw predetermines his actions and seals his fate. Modern audiences may consider this inexplicable, for while viewers understand when someone is punished for a crime they commit intentionally, it is less clear how fault should be ascribed when the crime is not intentional."
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Oedipus Rex, 2006.
This paper discusses 'Oedipus Rex' by Sophocles and examines why this work remains so noteworthy after such a long time.
1,376 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer looks at 'Oedipus Rex' by Sophocles that was written at least 2000 years ago and examines why the play continues as one of the most important and renowned tragedies ever. The writer discusses that some say it is the unique style, or its historical richness, or perhaps the theme that helps to better understand the foibles of humankind. The writer also suggests that maybe, the play maintains its successful run because it has just as powerful a message for humankind as it did two millennium ago. The writer concludes that all are left with the anxiety that their lives may be just as changeable and unpredictable. The writer maintains that this knowledge and understanding, in fact, is what makes Oedipus Rex today as important and renowned in the present as it was over 2,000 years ago.
From the Paper
"The truth is that anyone, anywhere is subject to the will of the gods. Now having the same strengths and weaknesses as anyone in the theater from the least plebeian to most privileged, Oedipus evokes a range of emotions from disgust to pity to terror. All are left with the anxiety that their lives may be just as changeable and unpredictable. For that is what happens to all who are mortal.
That knowledge and understanding, in fact, is what makes Oedipus Rex today as important and renowned in the present as it was over 2,000 years ago. How many humans, today, are just as torn--wondering how much of their lives are dictated by God, fate or some other force they cannot control, and how much they can decide for themselves through their own free will?"
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Oedipus Rex, 2007.
An analysis of the flaws of the character Oedipus Rex, in "Oedipus the King" by Sophocles.
1,116 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
The paper introduces, discusses, and analyzes the play "Oedipus the King" by Sophocles. Specifically, it interprets the play and the main character, Oedipus Rex, and his inability to listen to those around him. The paper examines how Oedipus is a tragic hero with a fatal flaw. He does not listen to the advice of those around him, and this is his downfall by the end of the play. The paper concludes that he is a brave and good leader and ruler, but his flaw keeps him from being truly great, and causes the city of Thebes hardship and great misfortune.
From the Paper
"The lesson from Oedipus is that pride can get in the way of common sense and the good of the many. Oedipus is prideful, and will not listen to the voices of the people around him. Many different characters give him excellent advice, but he chooses to ignore it and follow his own path that eventually leads to doom. If Oedipus had just taken the time to listen to the words of older, wiser individuals, he might not have suffered the fate he did. He let his pride get in the way of common sense, and it led to tragedy for his family and his people. He lost his real mother and father, fathered two children in incest, and ended up blind and alone."
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"Oedipus Rex", 2003.
An analysis of the downfall of Oedipus in Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex".
690 words (approx. 2.8 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 23.95
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Abstract
This paper outlines why the downfall of Oedipus in Sophocles' play "Oedipus Rex" is so tragic. It discusses whether or not he was accountable for his own downfall and what Sophocles was trying to say to the people of Athens.
From the Paper
"There is an old saying that says pride goes before a fall which means that when someone thinks and behaves in an over confident manner sooner or later something will happen usually brought upon themselves insome way to humiliate them. The more grand the ..."
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?Oedipus Rex?, 1992.
A comparison of the two characters, Oedipus and his mother Jocasta, in Sophocles' tragic play, "Oedipus Rex".
1,797 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 57.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses ancient Greek playwright Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex" which contains not one but two tragic protagonists. This paper considers the claims of Oedipus and his mother Jocasta to the role of the play's most tragic figure. The paper shows that as a result of their actions, both suffer a drastic downfall from the throne; Oedipus to exile, Jocasta to death. It is therefore equally easy to make a case for either character as being the more tragically fallen, but the paper determines that in the end, Jocasta is the more tragic of the two.
From the Paper
"Though Oedipus is one play, its tragedy is twofold. Although there is no argument that the main character of the story "Oedipus Rex" is Oedipus himself, it is a moot point as to whose tragedy is the more pathetic within the framework of the play, Oedipus' or his mother Jocasta's. Oedipus is guilty of incest; but so is Jocasta. He is both father and half brother to his children; Jocasta is both mother and grandmother to these same children. Oedipus murders his father; but in doing so, it is Jocasta he widows. Both suffer blows to their hubris: Oedipus in realizing that although he is the great riddle solver, he is ignorant of his own identity, and Jocasta in failing to thwart the prophecy."
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Oedipus Rex, 2007.
An analysis of the story of "Oedipus Rex" by discussing Pier Paolo Pasolini's movie "Oedipus the King" and the original Greek play by Sophocles.
1,167 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the story of "Oedipus Rex" by looking at the movie by Pier Paolo Pasolini and the original Greek play by Sophocles. It highlights and explains the reasons for the discrepancies between the movie and the play. The writer discusses irony which is a constant theme that runs throughout both the play and the movie. The writer also looks at the psychoanalytic concept introduced by Freud - the "Oedipus Complex" and its importance in the story. The writer concludes that even though Pasolini adds a epilogue to the end of his version of the story, the audience leaves with the same feeling from both works of art.
From the Paper
"In Pasolini's 1967 film adaptation of "Oedipus the King", the filmmaker mostly stays faithful to the main plot of the story. The differences in the movie, "Oedipus Rex" and the play "Oedipus the King" mostly have to do with the way the story is presented visually and a few tweaks with theme. Sophocles used far more dialogue in his version of the story. That was an important aspect of the ancient Grecian plays. In the movie, Pasolini is able to use more modern set designs, scenery, and facial expression to tell the storyIn Pasolini's 1967 film adaptation of "Oedipus the King", the filmmaker mostly stays faithful to the main plot of the story. The differences in the movie, "Oedipus Rex" and the play "Oedipus the King" mostly have to do with the way the story is presented visually and a few tweaks with theme. Sophocles used far more dialogue in his version of the story. That was an important aspect of the ancient Grecian plays. In the movie, Pasolini is able to use more modern set designs, scenery, and facial expression to tell the story."
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"Oedipus Rex" versus "Hamlet", 2007.
An analysis of the influence of the Sophoclean Grecian tragedy, "Oedipus Rex" on William Shakespeare's "Hamlet, The Prince of Denmark".
2,414 words (approx. 9.7 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 73.95
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Abstract
This paper evaluates the influential aspects of the Sophoclean Grecian tragedy on the latter forms of Shakespearean tragedy used within the Elizabethan period. It discusses the various psychological and political issues that abound in "Oedipus Rex" by Sophocles and how Oedipus acts as a clear role model for the insanity that Hamlet exhibits within Shakespeare's "Hamlet, The Prince of Denmark".
From the Paper
"In conclusion, the reemergence of the Greek tragedy in the Elizabethan era can be readily seen through the works of William Shakespeare through the influence of Sophocles. The plays Hamlet: The Prince of Denmark and Oedipus rex provide textual examples of the psychological and political disposition of the heroic character that is doomed to death due to errors in judgment. By understanding the principle aspects of the tragic hero in the work of Sophocles, one can realize why Shakespeare uses many of the literary devices that define tragedy along the Greek model. This inevitably appears in Hamlet and Oedipus through the presence of insanity in their thought process, but also in their lack of control over the political forces that seek to destroy them. This is how William Shakespeare readily provides an example of the reemergence of Greek tragedy in the Elizabethan era through the tragic works of Sophocles."
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Blindness in "Oedipus Rex", 2006.
An analysis of the irony of blindness in Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex".
855 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 30.95
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Abstract
Oedipus, the main character in Sophocles' play "Oedipus Rex", could not see the truth, but the blind man, Teiresias, "saw" it plainly. This paper discusses how Sophocles uses blindness as a motif in the play since Oedipus, known for his intelligence, is ignorant and therefore blind to the truth about himself and his past. It also shows that when Teiresias exposes the truth he is shunned and how Oedipus has to overcome his "blindness," realize the truth and accept fate.
From the Paper
"Unwillingly, Teiresias the blind seer provides Oedipus with the hurtful truth. Although before the truth is announced, Oedipus describes Teiresias as a "seer: student of mysteries." Oedipus looks to Teiresias for help in finding the murderer of the former king. He is trusted and respected by everyone in the city as evidenced by his introduction as "the holy prophet In whom, alone of all men, truth was born." Yet, when Teiresias speaks, reluctantly but honestly to Oedipus, he is shunned and his credibility and motives are attacked. Oedipus accuses Teiresias of plotting against him and helping Kreon become king. He claims that Kreon " has brought this decrepit fortune-teller, this collector of dirty pennies, this prophet fraud" to him."
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?Oedipus Rex? Misinterpreted, 2004.
This paper discusses that ?Oedipus Rex? is a very powerful psychological play, but it is simply not Freudian.
1,850 words (approx. 7.4 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 59.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that ?Oedipus Rex? deals with more modern psychological questions, such as the existence of genetic sexual attraction between shattered families and the existence of a fate, which determines our lives. The author points out that it certainly appears Freud was more interested in creating his nascent field of psychology than in doing a close reading of the Oedipus myth. The paper relates that the idea of a biological fate, which can be fought tooth-and-nail and yet still not be overcome, is central to the psychology of Oedipus, and it is certainly something with which readers can identify today.
From the Paper
"One could indeed make a Jungian analysis of this story, and say that Oedipus was in fact afraid of his own shadow -- which is not why he married his mother, but which may be why he fled from his old home and lashed out so violently against Tieresias and others who tried to help him. (Sophocles) Jung suggests that those who repress their shadow rather than dealing with it may find that it takes over their lives, as Oedipus was consumed by his cruel tyranny because he so feared the idea that his shadow would try to harm his parents. One might also try to argue that Jocasta was Oedipus? Anima (his female self whom he repressed and therefore lusted after and needed to be complete) but that?s an entirely different essay, because it?s both theoretical and more or less honest to the story. However, in other ways Oedipus shows no sign of having an Oedipal Complex, for he is neither afraid of having or using power, nor possessed of any sexual interest in the mother that raised him."
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The Metaphor of Sight in "Oedipus Rex", 2003.
A discussion of how Sophocles uses sight as a metaphor in the play, "Oedipus Rex".
846 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 0 sources, $ 30.95
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Abstract
Discussion of how Sophocles allows the characters of "Oedipus Rex" to use the ideas of sight and blindness in a physical sense to make suggestions about the metaphorical blindness of Oedipus.
From the Paper
"A tragedy like Sophocles? Oedipus The King makes use of many literary metaphors that have contributed to the significance of the Oedipus series in the history of drama. The metaphors of sight and prophecy that exist throughout the play are the primary metaphors at work and Sophocles makes use of the concept of sight from the first scene of the play. The beginning of the play features the Priest of Zeus bidding Oedipus to save the city from certain ruin. In particular, he refers to Oedipus as ?greatest in all men?s eyes? (ln. 40) and suggests that Oedipus might hear a wise word from some god or even a man (ln 43-4) that will aid him in his quest to save the city. The priest?s suggestion that Oedipus will hear, rather than see, something is significant because Oedipus frequently alludes to sight and blindness throughout the play. These references create many moments of dramatic irony because of Oedipus's metaphorical blindness to the inherent flaws in his own character that bring about his ruin."
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