Evaluate ‘Oedipus Rex’ as a Classical Tragedy.

Answer

Evaluate ‘Oedipus Rex’ as a tragedy/ classical tragedy.

The ancient Greek playwright Sophocles (496-406 BC) wrote “Oedipus Rex” (Performed in 429). It is a classical tragedy that follows the traditional elements of this dramatic form. Tragedies, as seen in classics, have certain features that make them distinct. “Oedipus Rex” adheres to these features. These features create a timeless and powerful narrative. Let us evaluate this as a classical tragedy in the following manner.

Tragic Hero: Oedipus, the protagonist, fits the classical definition of a tragic hero. He is noble and virtuous, but his fate is tragic due to a tragic flaw. Oedipus’s tragic flaw is his ignorance of his true identity. He unknowingly fulfils the prophecy of killing his father and marrying his mother. He expresses sadness in the following line:

Alas, how terrible is wisdom when it brings no profit to the wise!

This I knew well, but had forgotten it, else I would not have come here.

Tragic Flaw and Hubris: Oedipus’s downfall is rooted in his hubris or excessive pride. His relentless pursuit of truth and the belief in his ability to outsmart fate lead him to uncover the horrifying reality of his actions. 

I count myself the son of Chance, the great goddess, giver of all good things—

Oedipus’s tragic flaw becomes a tool through which the inevitability of his destiny develops. It emphasizes the classical theme of the inevitable power of fate.

Catharsis: The purpose of a classical tragedy is to evoke emotions. “Oedipus Rex” achieves this by arousing pity and fear in the audience. Witnessing Oedipus’s noble intentions and tragic downfall allows the audience to experience emotional release. The following quote makes the audience experience emotional release.

Why should I have eyes when there was nothing sweet for me to see?

It defines the essence of classical tragedy.

Anagnorisis and Peripeteia: Anagnorisis means a sudden realization of the truth. In Oedipus Rex, the protagonist undergoes a moment of anagnorisis. This revelation connects with peripeteia, which marks the climax of the tragedy. Peripeteia means a sudden reversal of fortune. Oedipus discovers the painful truth about his identity. It led to a swift and inevitable turn of events. After blinding himself, he utters:

What good were eyes to me? Nothing I could see could bring me joy.

This is the proof of anagnorisis and peripeteia.

Chorus and Choragos: A classical tragedy often includes a chorus that comments on the extending events. In Oedipus Rex, the chorus is the voice of reason and morality. It is evident by the following line:

Time, which sees all things, has found you out.

The Choragos, the chorus leader, provides insights and reflects the collective emotions of the community. This traditional element enhances the dramatic impact of the play.

Dramatic Irony and Foreboding: Irony is necessary in classical tragedies, and Oedipus Rex is no exception. Dramatic irony means the audience knows what is happening in the story, but the characters do not. Oedipus’s attempts to escape his fate only contribute to its fulfillment. The play has many dramatic ironies, such as killing Oedipus’ father by himself and marrying his mother, which is well-known. It creates a sense of foreboding throughout the narrative.

In conclusion, Oedipus Rex is an outstanding classical tragedy. It embraces the fundamental elements of this dramatic form. Sophocles masterfully includes a narrative that analyzes the tragic fate of a noble hero. He utilizes timeless themes of fate, pride, and the inevitable consequences of one’s actions. The play’s enduring power lies in its ability to evoke profound emotions and engage audiences across centuries.