Overview
This lecture summarizes the plot, characters, symbols, themes, and motifs of Sophocles’ tragedy "Oedipus Rex," highlighting the fate-driven downfall of its main character.
Plot Summary
- Oedipus becomes king of Thebes after solving the Sphinx’s riddle and marrying Jocasta, the queen.
- A plague strikes Thebes; Apollo’s Oracle says Laius’s killer must be found to end it.
- The prophet Tiresias accuses Oedipus of being the killer; Oedipus denies it and suspects a conspiracy.
- Jocasta recalls a prophecy that her son would kill his father, Laius, and details the child’s abandonment.
- Oedipus recounts a prophecy given to him and realizes he killed Laius at a crossroads.
- A messenger reveals Oedipus was adopted; the shepherd confirms Oedipus is Laius and Jocasta’s son.
- Jocasta kills herself; Oedipus blinds himself and begs for banishment.
- Creon takes over as ruler, and the chorus laments the tragic outcome.
Main Characters
- Oedipus: King of Thebes, unknowingly fulfills prophecy of killing his father and marrying his mother, blinds himself upon discovery.
- Jocasta: Oedipus’s wife and mother, tries to avoid prophecy, ultimately commits suicide.
- Creon: Jocasta’s brother, loyal to Oedipus, becomes king after the tragedy.
- Tiresias: Blind prophet, reveals Oedipus’s guilt, represents insight despite physical blindness.
Symbols
- Crossroads: Represents critical life-altering decisions and fate.
- Swollen Feet: Symbolize Oedipus’s marked destiny and his inescapable fate.
Major Themes
- Self-Discovery: Oedipus’s search for his identity leads to tragic self-revelation.
- Fate vs. Free Will: The gods’ will is inevitable; attempts to avoid fate only ensure its fulfillment.
- Blindness: Literal and metaphorical blindness highlight characters’ inability or refusal to see the truth.
- Pride (Hubris): Oedipus’s and Jocasta’s pride bring about their downfall by challenging the gods’ will.
Motifs
- Oracles and Prophecy: Drive the play’s action and underscore the power of fate.
- Light vs. Darkness: Linked to knowledge and ignorance, reinforcing the theme of blindness.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Oracle — A priest or prophet who delivers divine prophecies.
- Hubris — Excessive pride leading to defiance of the gods and downfall.
- Crossroads — A point of critical decision, symbolizing fate.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the plot, characters, and key themes for understanding of Greek tragedy.
- Read or watch "Oedipus Rex" for deeper insight into the discussed motifs and symbols.