'Oedipus Rex' by Sophocles is a classic Greek tragedy that revolves around Oedipus, the King of Thebes. The story begins with a prophecy made at the time of his birth, foretelling that he will kill his father and marry his mother. Oedipus sets out to discover the murderer of the previous king, his father, in order to lift the curse on the city of Thebes. As the plot unfolds, Oedipus uncovers his own dark past, leading to a series of tragic events including the realization of his crime, Jocasta's suicide, and Oedipus blinding himself before going into exile.
The writing style of 'Oedipus Rex' is noted for its dramatic and powerful storytelling, filled with irony, suspense, and psychological depth. Sophocles presents the story in a non-chronological manner, allowing readers to uncover Oedipus's past alongside the protagonist. The play delves into themes of fate, free will, prophecy, and the consequences of one's actions, creating a compelling narrative that explores the complexities of human nature and the impact of destiny.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings for Oedipus Rex include themes of incest, patricide, self-mutilation, and suicidal ideation, as well as the psychological trauma associated with these events.
From The Publisher:
Oedipus the King also known by the Latin title Oedipus Rex, is an Athenian tragedy by Sophocles that was first performed c. 429 BC. It was the second of Sophocles's three Theban plays to be produced, but it comes first in the internal chronology, followed by Oedipus at Colonus and then Antigone. Oedipus Rex chronicles the story of Oedipus, a man who becomes the king of Thebes while in the process unwittingly fulfilling a prophecy that he would murder his father Laius and marry his mother Jocasta. The play is an example of a classic tragedy, noticeably containing an emphasis on how Oedipus's own faults contribute to the tragic hero's downfall, as opposed to having fate be the sole cause. Over the centuries, Oedipus Rex has come to be regarded by many as the Greek tragedy par excellence.
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1 comment(s)
I can't decide if it was more tragic or more bizzare. A man killing his father to marry his mother. Interesting play to have read, not as entertaining to read as other plays I've read but an interesting story nevertheless
What can you read after
Oedipus Rex?
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