Oedipus King of Thebes / Translated into English Rhyming Verse with Explanatory Notes
Written by Sophocles
Published by Public Domain
Genre: Tragedy
Audience: Readers of classic literature and Greek tragedies
Tone: Serious
In 'Oedipus King of Thebes,' Oedipus's quest to save his city from a plague leads him to uncover a devastating truth about his own identity, resulting in tragic consequences that fulfill a horrific prophecy.
Detailed summary
In 'Oedipus King of Thebes,' Sophocles presents a gripping narrative steeped in themes of fate, identity, and the tragic consequences of pride. The story begins with Oedipus, the king of Thebes, confronting a devastating plague that has struck his city. In his quest to save Thebes, he vows to uncover the truth behind the murder of the former king, Laïus. As the narrative unfolds, Oedipus's determination leads him to confront the blind prophet Tiresias, who reluctantly reveals a shocking truth: Oedipus himself is the murderer he seeks. This revelation ignites a fierce confrontation between Oedipus and Tiresias, showcasing Oedipus's pride and refusal to accept the truth. As the story progresses, Oedipus's investigation into Laïus's death unravels a web of tragic revelations about his own lineage. He learns that he has unwittingly fulfilled a prophecy that foretold he would kill his father and marry his mother. The emotional climax occurs when Jocasta, Oedipus's wife and mother, overwhelmed by the implications of their shared fate, takes her own life. In a fit of despair, Oedipus blinds himself, marking his tragic downfall. The play concludes with Oedipus lamenting his fate and the suffering he has inflicted upon his family and city, leaving Thebes in turmoil. Through this harrowing tale, Sophocles explores the intricate interplay between fate and free will, the nature of truth, and the profound consequences of human pride, ultimately crafting a timeless tragedy that resonates with audiences across generations.
Spoilers
In 'Oedipus King of Thebes,' Oedipus, the king, seeks to uncover the truth behind the murder of his predecessor, Laïus, in order to save his city from a devastating plague. His relentless pursuit of truth leads him to confront the blind prophet Tiresias, who reveals a shocking truth about Oedipus's own identity and actions. As the narrative unfolds, Oedipus grapples with the consequences of his discoveries, culminating in tragic events that deeply affect both him and Thebes.