Fate vs free will in Oedipus rex

             In order to examine Oedipus Rex effectively in terms of free will and determinism, one must first understand these concepts fully and are intrinsically woven in to the concept of fate, which is a hugely fore-grounded theme in the play. Fate is derived from the latin word "fatum", meaning 'that which has been spoken'. This interpretation is directly linked to the ancient greek belief in the ability of the Gods to dictate and direct a persons life, absolutely. However, a full consideration of free will and determinism in the play necessitates the examination of 'fatalism' in the same regard. There exists a significant difference in meaning between determinism and fatalism; determinism being generally interpreted as viewing free will and fate as compatible. It suggests that whilst each event is casually determined, a person's choices and exertion of free will are part of what helps determine the future. Fatalism on the other hand is the more extreme view that every detail of the future is mapped out and inevitable regardless of a person's desires and choices. Therefore, to determine how these concepts are deployed in Oedipus Rex, the character's actions, the repercussions of these actions, the intervention of Apollo, and the role played by fate all need to be examined.
             Oedipus himself can be seen in several different lights when investigating fate and free will. Firstly, and most obviously, he can be seen as a puppet of fate. This demonstrates a governing thread of fatalism in the play, and suggests that Oedipus has no power over his future. This is demonstrated by the conscious effort Oedipus makes to escape the destiny the Oracle prophesised, such as when he flees Corinth under the misconception that he was leaving his birth parents behind. However, this action only serves to propel him further in to the arena where his destiny is to unfold.
             This is further evidenced in Iocasta and La...

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Fate vs free will in Oedipus rex. (1969, December 31). In MegaEssays.com. Retrieved 11:31, March 29, 2024, from https://www.megaessays.com/viewpaper/9469.html