Would you consider Oedipus Rex as a tragedy of fate or a tragedy of Character? Give reasons for your answer.
Oedipus Rex is a notable literary work by Sophocles. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Oedipus Rex.
Answer
Would you consider Oedipus Rex as a tragedy of fate or a tragedy of Character? Give reasons for your answer.
In a tragedy of fate, a character’s fate is predetermined, and they have no free will. On the other hand, a tragedy of character is a play where the protagonist’s choices lead to their downfall. Sophocles’ (c. 496 BCE – 406 BCE) “Oedipus Rex” (first performed in c. 429 BC) is regarded as one of the finest examples of classical tragedy. It tells the tragic story of Oedipus, the king of Thebes. His downfall is caused by a combination of fate and his own character flaws. While fate plays a dominant role in his tragedy, Oedipus’s pride, anger, and stubbornness also contribute to his suffering. Therefore, “Oedipus Rex” is both a tragedy of fate and character.
The Role of Fate: Fate drives the central tragedy in “Oedipus Rex.” The prophecy foretells that Oedipus will kill his father and marry his mother. Despite all efforts to escape this destiny, Oedipus fulfills it unknowingly. From the beginning, Oedipus’s life is controlled by forces beyond his control. He says:
I was doomed to be married to my mother and to shed my father’s blood with my own hands.
This shows that regardless of his actions, Oedipus’s fate is unavoidable. The plague, the oracle’s words, and the revelations of Teiresias all push Oedipus toward his tragic end.
Oedipus’s Character Flaws: Fate is the most significant behind Oedipus’s tragic end. However, his own character flaws can not be ruled out as causes. His pride (hubris) makes him confident. He begins to believe that he can outsmart the gods. He leaves Corinth to avoid the prophecy. He fails to realize that his actions bring him closer to fulfilling it. His anger is another flaw. When Teiresias refuses to reveal the truth, Oedipus becomes furious. He accuses him of plotting with Creon. He even insults Tiresias by saying:
You have no power or truth. You are blind, your ears and mind as well as eyes.
Besides, Oedipus’ refusal to listen to advice contributes to his tragic end.
The Interplay of Fate and Character: The tragedy in “Oedipus Rex” lies in the combination of fate and character. Oedipus is fated to commit terrible acts. His own decisions and personality make the situation worse. For example, when Jocasta begs him to stop searching for the truth about his birth, Oedipus insists on continuing. His words,
I will bring it all to light myself!
This line shows his determination to uncover the truth about his birth. This search for truth is both a strength and a flaw.
Thematic Significance: Sophocles uses the interplay of fate and character to explore universal themes. The tragedy of fate highlights the power of the gods. It also shows the limits of human control. The tragedy of character reveals how human flaws can lead to suffering. Together, these elements create a complex and powerful story.
In termination, fate and character work together to bring about Oedipus’s downfall in this play. We learn from the prophecy that Oedipus is destined to doom. His pride, anger, and stubbornness also play a significant role in fulfilling it. Sophocles properly shows that human beings cannot escape their destiny. However, their choices also shape their lives.