Sophocles
What’s inside
Oedipus Rex, also known by its Greek title, Oedipus Tyrannus or Oedipus the King, is an Athenian tragedy by Sophocles that was first performed around 429 BC. The play tells the story of Oedipus, the King of Thebes, who is desperate to avoid a prophecy that he will kill his father and marry his mother. Despite his efforts to dodge fate, Oedipus inadvertently fulfills the prophecy while seeking to prevent it, leading to tragic consequences. The narrative explores themes of fate vs. free will, blindness and insight, and the quest for truth and identity.
You’ll Learn
- Gain insights into ancient Greek culture and mythology.
- Explore profound themes such as destiny, morality, and self-discovery.
- Appreciate the complexities of classical storytelling and dramatic structure.
- Contemplate the relationship between individual actions and fate.
Key Points
- The Oracle’s prophecy
- Oedipus’s arrival in Thebes
- The Sphinx’s riddle solved
- The investigation of the king’s murder
- The revelation of Oedipus’s birth
- Oedipus’s realization and self-punishment
Who’s it For
- Students of classic literature
- Readers interested in Greek mythology
- Individuals exploring themes of fate and free will
- Theatre enthusiasts
About the author
Sophocles is one of the three ancient Greek tragedians whose plays have survived. His work, which includes over 120 plays, was innovative and influential, shaping the development of the dramatic arts. Sophocles’s storytelling mastery, particularly in character development and plot construction, continues to be celebrated in literature and theatre.