Background
A prominent Greek playwright of the 5th century BCE, known for introducing innovations in theater, including the use of painted scenery and the third actor.
Who is Sophocles?
A dramatic genre that often involves the downfall of a noble hero due to a fatal flaw (hamartia) and culminates in a catharsis for the audience.
What is a Tragedy?
A priestess at the Temple of Apollo who delivered prophecies. Oedipus consults her to learn about the plague in Thebes and uncovers the prophecy of his fate.
Who is the Oracle of Delphi?
The final scene of a Greek tragedy where the moral of the story is often revealed. In Oedipus Rex, the exodus highlights the consequences of Oedipus’s actions.
What is the Exodus?
The tragic hero and King of Thebes, known for his intelligence and determination but ultimately undone by fate.
Who is Oedipus?
The play is set in Thebes, a city-state in ancient Greece. The backdrop of a plague affecting Thebes serves as the catalyst for the unfolding drama.
What is the Setting?
The tragic flaw or error in judgment that leads to the protagonist's downfall. In Oedipus’s case, his pride and determination to defy fate can be seen as his...
What is Hamartia?
A mythical creature that posed a riddle to travelers and devoured those who could not answer correctly. Oedipus solved the Sphinx's riddle, saving Thebes and becoming king.
What is the Sphinx?
A person or medium through whom a deity is believed to speak, often providing insights or predictions about the future. Oracles were central to ancient religious practices, particularly in Greek culture.
What is an Oracle?
Oedipus’s wife and mother, who attempts to avoid the truth of the prophecy.
Who is Jocasta?
Oedipus Rex, also known as Oedipus the King, is part of a trilogy that includes Antigone and Oedipus at Colonus. It was first performed around 429 BCE.
What is the Context?
Excessive pride or self-confidence that often leads to the protagonist’s downfall. Oedipus exhibits hubris in his insistence on uncovering the truth, believing he can outsmart the prophecy.
What is Hubris?
The emotional release experienced by the audience as a result of the tragic events. The play elicits feelings of pity and fear.
What is Catharsis?
A religious leader authorized to perform sacred rituals and act as an intermediary between the divine and the human. Priests often hold significant authority in religious communities and are responsible for conducting ceremonies and maintaining temples.
What is a Priest?
Jocasta’s brother and Oedipus’s brother-in-law, who represents reason and loyalty to Thebes.
Who is Creon?
The story follows Oedipus, the King of Thebes, as he seeks to uncover the truth about the murder of his predecessor, King Laius. As he investigates, he uncovers a shocking truth about his own identity and fate, leading to tragic consequences.
What is the Plot Summary?
A central theme in the play, exploring whether Oedipus's downfall is due to fate (predetermined by the gods) or his own choices.
What is Fate vs. Free Will?
A message or prediction about future events, often believed to be inspired by a divine source. The message can provide guidance, warnings, or insights about what is to come.
What is a Prophecy?
A blind prophet who knows the truth about Oedipus’s past but is initially reluctant to reveal it.
Who is Tiresias?
A literary device where the audience knows more than the characters. In Oedipus Rex, the audience knows Oedipus’s true parentage and fate long before he does.
What is Dramatic Irony?
Refers to the ancient past, particularly the period of history before the Middle Ages. It is often associated with the cultures and civilizations of ancient Greece and Rome, as well as other early societies.
What is Antiquity?
A group of Theban elders who comment on the action and represent the voice of the people.
Who is The Chorus?