Religion In Oedipus The King - 1012 Words

In Oedipus, the King, the main character, Oedipus, starts the play in the highest prestige, he is the King of Thebes and is held in high regard to almost all citizens for his prosperous reign. By the end of the play, Oedipus is vilified by his citizens and almost all the people of Thebes. I argue that Oedipus’ downfall is directly linked to his rejection of religious guidance and omens; namely, the Gods and the oracle. One could argue that no divine entity openly acts out toward Oedipus, however this analysis will focus on more indirect patterns and instances of divine action. Oedipus’ constant disapproval of religious consultation and figures is seen as a slight to the Gods and so they contribute to his fall from reign. These divine†¦show more content†¦Oedipus says, â€Å"It does but not for you, old man. You’ve lost your power, stone-blind, stone-deaf-senses, eyes blind as stone!† to which Tiresias replies, â€Å" I pity you, flinging at me th e very insults each man will fling at you so soon.† (Sophocles 422-425). This is one section of the play that the reader begins to question about the gods true role in the lives of the people. After advancing further into the play, you find out that Tiresias was right after all and Oedipus’ fate was sealed from the beginning all the way down to the senses that he loses. After it is revealed that Oedipus blinded himself with two pins from his wife’s dress, the Chorus is in disarray and says, â€Å"O the terror- the suffering, for all the world to see, the worst terror that ever met my eyes. What madness swept over you? What god, what dark power leapt beyond all bounds, beyond belief, to crush your wretched life?- godforsaken, cursed by the gods!† (Sophocles 1434-1440). Oedipus himself begins to seek answers within himself for these very questions and the irony becomes very clear. While ultimately it was up to the gods, what really makes Oedipus a tragic hero is that he had a choice to live happily or make it worse for himself and very simply could’ve just accepted and supported the gods’ decision. The Chorus’ questioning isShow MoreRelatedPower of the Gods and Religion in Oedipus the King Essay723 Words   |  3 PagesIn the tragic play, Oedipus Rex, the Gods and religion greatly influence the social structure whi ch in turn has a profound effect upon how the events unfold. Oedipus is the head of the state. There is a direct parallel in the demise of his household and city state which eventually comes to a full circle to destroy him. 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