Oedipus Rex : Themes
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.
Themes
Action vs. Reflection: Oedipus is a man of action. He wants to solve problems quickly. He acts without thinking deeply. When Thebes suffers from a plague, he sends Creon to the oracle of Delphi to help and starts searching for the killer of King Laius. But he does not stop to reflect on the consequences. His quick decisions led to disaster. If Oedipus had thought carefully, he might have avoided his fate. This theme shows the danger of acting too fast without understanding the truth.
Finding Out the Truth: Oedipus wants to find the truth about King Laius’ murder. He believes knowing the truth will save Thebes. But the truth is painful. He learns he killed his father and married his mother. Instead of happiness, the truth brings suffering. This theme shows that truth can be dangerous. Sometimes, it is better not to know everything.
Sight vs. Blindness: Oedipus can see, but he is blind to the truth. He does not realize he is the murderer. The blind prophet, Teiresias, cannot see with his eyes but knows the truth. At the end, Oedipus blinds himself because he finally sees his mistakes. This theme shows that real sight is not about the eyes but about understanding the truth.
Guilt and Shame: When Oedipus learns the truth, he feels deep guilt and shame. He did not know he had killed his father and married his mother, but he still blames himself. He punishes himself by stabbing his eyes. Jocasta, his mother-wife, also feels shame and kills herself. This theme shows that even if mistakes are unintentional, guilt and shame can destroy people.
Fate vs. Free Will: Oedipus tries to escape his fate, but everything he does brings him closer to it. The gods predicted he would kill his father and marry his mother. He tries to avoid this, but he unknowingly fulfills the prophecy. This theme shows that no one can escape fate, no matter how hard they try. Fate is stronger than free will.