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