"Oedipus Rex"

Analytical Essay # 6310

Drama and Theater > Greek and Roman
English > Analysis
Philosophy > Ancient Greek

"Oedipus Rex"

A look at the themes of vision, perception and fate in the tragedy "Oedipus Rex", by Sophocles.

780 words () | 1 source | MLA | 2002 Canada

Paper Summary:

According to the author, this work is filled with many seemingly tragic yet ironic occurrences. Whenever a character attempts to change fate, this is ironic to an audience who knows that the tragic outcome of the story cannot be avoided. Metaphors are analyzed which deal with eyes, sight and vision as well as distorted perception.

From the Paper:

"It has been said many times that people have been blinded by the truth. The answer to their question or problem might have been right in front of their eyes all along. Yet, the fail to see the answer. Being blinded by the truth. This irony plays a role in Oedipus Rex. Oedipus while gifted with sight, is blind to himself. The blind may not have physical sight, but they have a different kind of vision that is just as precious. In Oedipus Rex, Teiresias, the blind prophet, presents the truth to King Oedipus and Jocasta. When Oedipus does find the truth, he loses his vision. Because of the truth, Oedipus gains a second vision. In Sophocles tragedy Oedipus Rex, Oedipus is blessed with the gift of perception, yet he cannot see what is right before his eyes. Blinded by the truth, this fleeting view was critical for development of self-awareness and growth of Oedipus."