The series of events that occur before and after the prophecy revealed by the gods is fulfilled can be fully explained only through the idea that Oedipus Rex was a man propelled by flaws in his own nature. While it may be argued that certain coincidences could not have happened without the influence of outside forces, ultimately it was Oedipus’s own choices and actions that brought about his fate. If it wasn’t for the presence of the faults that led Oedipus to make those choices or take those actions, he may have been able to avoid the ill fortune that befell him.
Oedipus’ main flaw is his pride. This pride stems into various other negative characteristics including arrogance, rashness and willingness to ignore the truth. Oedipus’ pride first comes into play when he encounters his father Laios at Phokis, the crossroads where three roads meet. A crossroad is a place where a choice must be made of which path will be taken. This is symbolic of Oedipus making an important decision when he killed Laios at the crossroads. This was a rash and impulsive decision, which had its roots in Oedipus’ pride. Oedipus, who thought himse
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It was in response to the way Oedipus accepted being the people’s savior and object of worship that they decided to ruin him by revealing the truth about who he was, as a means of punishment and a lesson in humility. His pride having been offended, Oedipus lost his temper and killed all five of them, including Laios. During his confrontation with Creon, the Choragos even warns Oedipus “judgments too quickly formed are dangerous. He clings blindly to this hope until the final, devastating blow is delivered by the shepherd’s story. His arrogant pride (although at times it seems justified by the services he has rendered the people of Thebes) led not only to the fulfillment of the part of the prophecy where Oedipus kills his own father, but also to the angering of the gods. This is the gods’ way of teaching Oedipus a lesson in humility that he will never forget. When he is approached by his people, and by Creon to find the one responsible for the death of Laios, Oedipus remarks “Then once more I must bring what is dark to light.
Oedipus’ pride, and confidence in himself grows even further as he is proclaimed king of Thebes for having defeated the Sphinx. 43) in reference to how Laios died by his hand. In times of trouble, such as the plague in the beginning of the story, the people turn to Oedipus for help rather than the gods. lf the son of the king of Corinth, was greatly insulted when Laios and his men (who had the appearance of common highway men since they were traveling in disguise) forced him out of their way. The people of Thebes look upon him as their savior, and begin to worship him.
Approximate Word count =
766
Approximate Pages =
3 (250 words per page double spaced)
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