Oedipus and Oedipus Rex Overview

Study Notes

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 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.

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.