Oedipus and Oedipus Rex Overview

Oedipus

• Oedipus is a play by Sophocles about the tragic downfall of a king who unknowingly kills his father and marries his mother.
• Major characters include Oedipus himself, Jocasta (his mother and wife), Tiresias (a blind prophet), and Creon (Oedipus' brother-in-law).
• Oedipus' hubris, or excessive pride, leads him to disregard warnings about his fate, ultimately leading to his downfall.
• The play uses dramatic irony to create tension, as the audience is aware of the truth while Oedipus remains oblivious.
• Key themes include fate versus free will, the consequences of hubris, and the nature of justice.

Oedipus Rex

• Oedipus Rex is another play by Sophocles, focusing on the aftermath of Oedipus' discovery of his true identity.
• Antigone, Oedipus' daughter, is a prominent character in this play. Known for her sense of justice and stubborn nature, she defies Creon's order to not bury her brother, Polyneices.
• While Oedipus is still present, he portrays more mental distress, showcasing the consequences of his actions.
• The play explores similar themes to its predecessor: fate, justice, and moral responsibility.
• The relationship between Antigone and Creon highlights the clash between individual conscience and state authority, further emphasizing the conflict between personal morals and legal mandates.

Antigone

• This play centers on Antigone's defiance of Creon's decree prohibiting the burial of Polyneices.
• Antigone's unwavering commitment to her sense of justice and family loyalty contrasts with Creon's rigid adherence to the law.
• Alongside Antigone, Haemon (Creon's son and Antigone's fiancé), Ismene (Antigone's sister), and Tiresias (the blind prophet) are critical characters.
• The play uses dramatic irony to highlight the contrast between Creon's blind pride and the tragic consequences of his actions.
• Key themes include the conflict between individual conscience and state authority, the consequences of pride and blind obedience, and the power of individual conviction.