FATE VS FREE WILL IN

SOPHOCLES’ OEDIPUS REX

A PROJECT SUBMITTED IN THE PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF

BACHELOR OF ARTS

SUBMITTED BY:- SWAYAM RAJ DORA

+3 FINAL YEAR (ARTS)

COLLEGE ROLL NO:- BA-22-430

UNIVERSITY ROLL NO:- 2201010690080103

UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF:

DR. PRAGNYA PARIMITA PRADHAN

JUNIOR LECTURER IN ENGLISH

P.G DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH

RAJDHANI DEGREE COLLEGE, BHUBANESWAR

ODISHA- 751003
 DECLARATION

I hereby declare that the project entitled “Fate vs Free Will in

Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex” submitted to the P.G Department of English,
Rajdhani Degree College, Bhubaneswar is a record of original and
independent research work done by me under the supervision of Dr.
Pragnya Parimita Pradhan, Junior Lecturer in English.

All information in this dissertation is obtained and published in

accordance with academic rules and ethical conduct. I also certify that,
as required by these academic rules and conduct, I have properly cited
and referenced all non-original data and results.

_______________________

Swayam Raj Dora

College Roll No:- BA-22-430

University Roll No:- 2201010690080103

1
 CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the project entitled “Fate vs Free Will in

Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex” has been submitted to the P.G Department
of English, Rajdhani Degree College, Bhubaneswar, in partial fulfilment
of Graduation in English by Swayam Raj Dora, bearing university roll
number:- 2201010690080103, under the supervision and guidance of
Dr. Pragnya Parimita Pradhan, Junior Lecturer in English, is an original
work which has been developed, completed and executed successfully
by the candidate himself.

_______________________

Dr. Pragnya Parimita Pradhan

Junior Lecturer in English

Rajdhani Degree College

Bhubaneswar

2
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all those who have

contributed to the success of this project. This project has been
prepared by me with sincere efforts without imitating from any
source. I would like to express my gratitude towards Dr. Pragnya
Parimita Pradhan for her overwhelming support and guidance.

Additionally, I would like to express my appreciation for the

stimulating intellectual environment fostered by my peers and
mentors. Engaging in discussions and exchanging ideas with my
friends and seniors has challenged my perspective and enriched my
understanding of the subject matter. While I cannot individually cite
every source or conversation that informed my work, I recognize the
importance of this collective intellectual endeavor.

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 ABSTRACT

This paper deals with the debate between “Fate and Free Will in
Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex” which is a central theme in the ancient Greek
tragedy as the play explores the idea of destiny and the extent to
which individuals have control over their own lives. The character
Oedipus, the king of Thebes, is fated from birth to kill his father and
marry his mother, fulfilling a prophecy given to his parents before his
birth. Despite efforts to thwart the prophecy, Oedipus ultimately
fulfils it unwittingly, leading to his downfall and self-inflicted
blindness. The question at the heart of “Oedipus Rex” is whether
Oedipus’ actions are driven by fate or by his own choices. My
interpretation of the play’s treatment of fate and free will is that it
suggests a kind of tragic irony as Oedipus’ efforts to avoid his fate, only
serves to bring it about. In this sense, the play can be seen as a
meditation on the limits of human knowledge and the dangers of
hubris and overconfidence. Another way of looking at the play’s
treatment of fate is to see it as an exploration of the
interconnectedness of human action and the divine will. This tension
between fate and free will in “Oedipus Rex” has led to a wide range of
interpretations of the play’s meaning and significance. Regardless of
the specific interpretation, “Oedipus Rex” remains a powerful and
provocative exploration of fate, free will, and the role of the divine in
human life.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Declaration…………………………………………………………………….Pg:- 1

Certificate………………………………………………………………………Pg:- 2

Acknowledgement…………………………………………………………Pg:- 3

Abstract…………………………………………………………………………Pg:- 4

Table of Contents…………………………………………………………..Pg:- 5

Introduction…………………………………………………………………..Pg:- 6-10

Literature Review…………………………………………………………..Pg:- 11-12

Research Methodology………………………………………………….Pg:- 13-14

Chapter.1: The Prophecy- Destiny Or Choice………………….Pg:- 15-18

Chapter.2: The Role Of Gods In Oedipus’ Fate……………….Pg:- 19-22

Chapter.3: Human Agency And Hubris……………………………Pg:- 23-24

Conclusion………………………………………………………………………Pg:- 25

Bibliography……………………………………………………………………Pg:- 26

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 INTRODUCTION
"Oedipus Rex" is a classic Greek tragedy by Sophocles that tells the
story of Oedipus, the king of Thebes, and the tragic consequences of
his efforts to avoid a prophecy about his fate. The play explores
themes of fate, free will, and the limits of human knowledge as
Oedipus grapples with his destiny and the consequences of his actions.
Sophocles wrote "Oedipus Rex" during the 5th century BCE, at a time
when Greece was undergoing significant political and cultural
changes. At the time of the play’s creation, Athens was undergoing
significant political and social upheaval, as democratic reforms were
gradually taking hold and challenging traditional assumptions about
power and authority.

The play can be read as a critique of the Greek belief in the supremacy
of fate and divine will over human agency, challenging the notion that
individuals were at the mercy of external forces beyond their control.
Sophocles' writing in "Oedipus Rex" is considered a masterwork of
Greek tragedy, blending elements of drama, poetry, and philosophy
to create a powerful and enduring work of art. The character of
Oedipus has become one of the most iconic figures in Western
literature, embodying the tragic hero archetype and serving as a
touchstone for discussions about the nature of human suffering and
the relationship between man and the divine. "Oedipus Rex" is widely
regarded as one of the greatest works of Greek tragedy and has been

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adapted and reinterpreted countless times in the centuries since its
creation, influencing everything from Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” to
Freudian psychoanalysis. One of the central questions posed by
“Oedipus Rex” is the nature of fate and the extent to which human
beings can shape their own destiny.

Oedipus himself is a complex and tragic figure, struggling with the

duality of his identity as both a king and a victim of fate. His journey
from a position of power and privilege to one of humiliation and
despair serves as a powerful metaphor for the fragility of human
existence and the inexorable march of time. "Oedipus Rex" offers a
powerful critique of Greek cultural values and societal norms through
its exploration of the character of Oedipus and his relationship to the
wider Theban community. One key aspect of this critique is the play's
depiction of the relationship between men and women in ancient
Greece. The characters of Jocasta and Antigone, Oedipus' wife and
daughter respectively, are both strong and independent women who
challenge traditional gender roles and expectations. Sophocles’ use of
the character of Oedipus as a tragic hero who falls victim to his own
flaws and hubris can be seen as a commentary on the dangers of
excessive pride and arrogance, and a warning against the pitfalls of
power. At the same time, “Oedipus Rex” also draws on historical and
mythological sources that were well-known to its original audience.

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The story of Oedipus was part of a larger cycle of legends known as
the Theban Cycle, which dealt with the founding of the city of Thebes
and the struggles of its early rulers. By drawing on these legends and
reinterpreting them through a tragic lens, Sophocles was able to
create a powerful commentary on the nature of leadership and the
dangers of tyranny. In the modern era, "Oedipus Rex" has continued
to be a source of inspiration and commentary, with its themes and
characters resonating with contemporary concerns and debates. One
prominent area of modern critique has centred on the play’s portrayal
of hubris and the dangers of excessive pride and arrogance. Many
commentators have argued that the play serves as a cautionary tale
about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the pitfalls of
overconfidence, particularly in the political and corporate spheres.

Another area of modern critique has focused on the play’s depiction

of fate and destiny. While some contemporary thinkers have argued
that the concept of fate is outdated or irrelevant in today’s world,
others have suggested that the idea of fate still has relevance and
resonance in our modern society.

Some argue that the idea of fate can be understood as a metaphor for
the structural and systemic forces that shape our lives, such as the
constraints of class, race, and gender. Others suggest that the idea of
fate is a helpful way of understanding the role of chance and
contingency in shaping human experience, even in a world where

8
scientific and technological advances have made us more aware of the
complexities of human behaviour and cognition. Some contemporary
thinkers have also explored the ways in which "Oedipus Rex" speaks
to contemporary anxieties about identity and belonging.

In an increasingly globalized and interconnected world, many people

struggle to define their identities and to find their place in the world.
Oedipus’ journey from a position of power and privilege to one of
alienation and isolation can be seen as a metaphor for the modern
experience of displacement and rootlessness, particularly for
individuals who are forced to navigate multiple cultural identities and
traditions. "Oedipus Rex" continues to resonate with modern
audiences and thinkers through its timeless exploration of human
nature, the limits of knowledge, and the complexities of fate and free
will. As a work of art and literature, the play serves as a powerful
reminder of the enduring power of storytelling to illuminate the
human condition and to challenge our assumptions about the world.
At the same time, the play’s critique of hubris and excessive pride
remains as relevant today as it was in ancient Greece, offering a
cautionary tale about the dangers of ambition and the importance of
humility and self-reflection.

The aim of this paper is to delve below the floor of Sophocles’

“Oedipus Rex” unravelling the objective and analytical approach that
considers both sides of the debate. The paper examines the evidence

9
for and against each position within the text. The paper explores some
passages in the play which suggest that Oedipus' downfall was
inevitable and predestined, while other passages suggest that he
could have made different choices that would have altered the course
of his life. Overall, the paper’s goal is to provide a well-rounded and
nuanced analysis of the topic that takes into account multiple
perspectives and historical contexts. By taking a balanced and
objective approach to the topic, the paper presents a more complex
and thought-provoking analysis that contributes to our understanding
of this important and enduring work of literature. Some of the central
tenets of this work are mentioned below:

 Human agency:- Examine if humans have any degree of control

over their fate, if they are subjects to larger forces beyond their
control.
 Knowledge and ignorance:- Examine if Oedipus had known his
true identity, will he be able to avoid fulfilling the prophecy.
 Hubris:- Ask questions about Oedipus’ arrogance and
overconfidence in his own abilities that leads him to ignore
warnings and defy the gods, ultimately contributing to his fate.

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 LITERATURE REVIEW
Sophocles’ Play “Oedipus Rex” has plunged readers into examining the
various critical interpretations and scholarly debates that have arisen
around the play. One prominent area of scholarly inquiry has focused
on the role of fate and free will in the play. Some scholars argue that
the play portrays fate as an inexorable force that shapes human
destiny, while others suggest that Oedipus' downfall is ultimately the
result of his own choices and actions. Another key area of critical
analysis has been the psychological dimensions of the play. Freudian
interpretations of "Oedipus Rex" have been particularly influential,
with many scholars arguing that the play explores themes of
unconscious desire and the Oedipus complex. The Oedipus complex is
a concept proposed by Sigmund Freud in his psychoanalytic theory.
According to Freud, the Oedipus complex is a psychological
phenomenon that occurs in childhood, characterized by a child’s
sexual desire for the parent of the opposite sex and a corresponding
hostility or rivalry towards the parent of the same sex. Some critics
argue that the play’s focus on the relationship between Oedipus and
his mother Jocasta speaks to broader themes of incestuous desire and
family trauma. Other scholars have approached the play from a more
postmodern perspective, exploring themes such as gender, sexuality,
and power. Some critics have argued that the play’s portrayal of

11
Jocasta as a strong and independent woman subverts traditional
gender roles and expectations.

More recently, some scholars have turned their attention to the role
of the chorus in "Oedipus Rex," exploring how the chorus functions as
both a narrative device and a symbol of collective identity. Some
critics argue that the chorus represents the voice of the community
and serves as a symbol of collective guilt and responsibility for
Oedipus’ downfall. Others suggest that the chorus serves as a bridge
between the world of the individual and the world of the gods,
highlighting the porous boundaries between the human and the
divine.

 Greek playwright and philosopher Aristotle praised it as "the

perfect tragedy” when "Oedipus Rex" was first staged in 429 BC.
 Harold Bloom, for example, described the play as "a work of
genius that manifests the splendor of Western literature”.
 Northrop Frye, called "Oedipus Rex" "one of the most
profoundly revealing tragedies in the whole range of dramatic
literature." Frye praised the play’s exploration of the human
condition and its ability to elicit both sympathy and horror in its
audiences.
 Roland Barthes, the French literary critic described "Oedipus
Rex" as "a masterpiece of intellectual tension, psychological
depth, and dramatic intensity."

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 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
To ensure robust and insightful findings, this project leverages a
multifaceted qualitative approach. This approach is known as
‘Research Methodology’. We delve into the rich tapestry of human
experience through interviews, observations, and document analysis,
capturing the nuances of emotions, motivations, and perspectives
that quantitative methods might miss. This research unfolds in three
stages: designing the blueprint, meticulously collecting diverse data,
and weaving together insights through rigorous analysis. This
approach not only fosters a deeper understanding of lived realities but
also allows us to tailor the research to the specific complexities of our
topic. By inviting you into the research journey, we aim to
demonstrate the validity and reliability of our findings, offering a
window into the power of qualitative methods to illuminate the
human experience.

There are several sources of information, the most common being:

primary sources, secondary sources and tertiary sources.

The Primary data source is created by collecting the essential words,

phrases and sentences directly from the text; quotes used in this
article are considered the primary data.

The secondary data source consists of supporting data obtained from

multiple literary books, essays, critiques, articles and journals also

13
taken from the internet or from other sources relating to the text. To
make my thesis more resourceful, I have drawn inspiration from
various blogs upon Oedipus Rex. I even watched Oedipus Rex (Edipo
re), a 1967 Italian movie by Pier Paolo Pasolini based on the exact
Greek tragedy available on Prime Video and YouTube as well.

The tertiary data source is the collection of primary and secondary

data that is filtered and analysed together. I read several
bibliographies, indexes, abstracts, and other reference resources in
various formats, online and in print, to refine my work.

Beyond the literary realm, I explore the unconventional social

commentary. This involves using textual analysis to perceive and
unpack Sophocles’ opinions of the political and social upheaval in
Athens, the societal obsession with fate affected by larger forces
beyond control and the complicated dynamics of tragic drama.
Additionally, I draw upon secondary assets together with educational
articles, crucial opinions, and sociological studies to contextualize
Sophocles’ portrayal of fate and free will in a broader, cultural and
historical framework.

14
 CHAPTER.1: THE PROPHECY- DESTINY OR CHOICE?
The prophecy in “Oedipus Rex” is a central element in the play’s
exploration of fate and free will. The Oracle of Delphi predicts that
Oedipus will kill his father and marry his mother, setting in motion a
chain of events that eventually lead to the king’s downfall. However,
it is worth considering whether this prophecy truly represents destiny
or choice.

 Some critics argue that Oedipus’ fate was predetermined and

that he was simply fulfilling the prophecy, regardless of his
actions.
 Others argue that Oedipus had choices and opportunities to
avoid fulfilling the prophecy. For example, if he had remained in
Corinth with his adoptive parents, or if he had not killed the man
at the crossroads who turned out to be his father, he might have
avoided his fate.

One potential interpretation of the prophecy in “Oedipus Rex” is that

it represents a kind of self-fulfilling prophecy. Because Oedipus was so
determined to avoid the prophecy, he actually ended up fulfilling it by
attempting to escape it. This suggests that human actions and
decisions can play a significant role in shaping the course of events,
even when it seems that destiny is unavoidable.

15
Another way of looking at the prophecy is to consider the way it is
presented in the play. The Oracle of Delphi delivers the prophecy in a
cryptic and ambiguous form, leaving room for interpretation. This
ambiguity highlights the theme of the limits of human knowledge in
“Oedipus Rex.”

Even though Oedipus is determined to uncover the truth about his

past and the prophecy, he is ultimately unable to escape his fate. The
idea of self-knowledge and self-understanding is also relevant to the
prophecy. Oedipus is depicted as a complex character with blind spots
and flaws, particularly in his inability to recognize his own role in
fulfilling the prophecy.

Throughout the play, Oedipus is confronted with evidence that points

to his guilt, but he refuses to acknowledge or accept the truth until it
is too late. This suggests that personal awareness and introspection
may be important factors in avoiding or defying fate. In addition to
these themes, the prophecy also contributes to the overall structure
and dramatic tension of the play. The uncertainty surrounding the
prophecy creates a sense of suspense and anticipation that drives the
plot forward and engages the audience.

As the play unfolds, the audience is left wondering whether Oedipus

will be able to avoid his fate or whether he will ultimately fulfil the
prophecy, contributing to the tragic irony and emotional power of the
story.

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The theme of the prophecy and its implications for fate and free will
are also relevant to other literary and philosophical traditions,
including Christianity and existentialism.

 In Christianity, for example, the concept of predestination and

divine will are central to the theology of many denominations.
 In existentialism, the idea of individual responsibility and agency
in the face of an unpredictable and chaotic world is often
explored.

By exploring these broader themes and implications, we can gain a

deeper appreciation for the richness and complexity of “Oedipus Rex”
as a work of art and a source of philosophical inquiry. The theme of
the prophecy and fate in “Oedipus Rex” is not limited to its own
context and tradition, but rather reflects a timeless and universal
question about human nature and the meaning of life.

In many ways, the play can be seen as a cautionary tale about the
dangers of excess and the importance of humility and self-awareness.
Oedipus’ downfall is ultimately the result of his own pride and
ignorance, which blind him to the truth and lead him to ignore the
warnings of others.

The question of the role of fate in human experience has been

explored in countless works of literature, philosophy, and religion
throughout history. From ancient Greek tragedies to modern science
fiction, the idea of predestination and determinism has fascinated

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writers and thinkers across cultures and eras. In this sense, “Oedipus
Rex” represents a landmark work that has inspired countless other
works of art and thought, influencing the way we think about fate,
destiny, and the nature of human experience.

The legacy of "Oedipus Rex" can be seen in its influence on later works
of literature and drama, from Shakespeare’s tragedies to the works of
modern playwrights such as Arthur Miller and Eugene O’Neill. In fact,
many literary theorists have argued that the concept of the “tragic
hero” in Western literature can be traced back to the character of
Oedipus in the play. This legacy can also be seen in the way that the
concept of the “Oedipus complex” has influenced modern psychology
and psychoanalysis.

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 CHAPTER.2: THE ROLE OF GODS IN OEDIPUS’ FATE
The role of the gods in Oedipus’ fate is a crucial aspect of the play’s
exploration of the theme of Fate vs. Free Will. Throughout the play,
the gods are portrayed as powerful forces that shape the course of
human events and determine the outcome of human actions. For
example, the prophecy that sets the play in motion comes from the
Oracle of Delphi, who is believed to speak on behalf of the gods. At
the same time, the gods are often portrayed as enigmatic and
unpredictable, making it difficult to determine their true motives or
intentions.

The relationship between the gods and Oedipus is particularly

complex. On the one hand, the gods seem to be working against him
by orchestrating the events that leads to his downfall. On the other
hand, they are also depicted as providing him with opportunities to
avoid his fate, such as the warning given to him by the prophet
Tiresias.

This ambiguity and tension between the gods’ will and human agency
is a central theme of the play, reflecting the complex relationship
between divine power and human responsibility in ancient Greek
culture.

The gods’ role in Oedipus’ fate also highlights the theme of divine
retribution or “nemesis” in Greek tragedy. According to the ancient

19
Greek concept of nemesis, hubris or excessive pride would inevitably
lead to punishment by the gods. In this context, Oedipus’ downfall can
be seen as a result of his own hubris, which leads him to defy the gods
and reject their warnings and guidance.

Another aspect of the gods’ role in Oedipus’ fate is their

representation of the ultimate power of fate and destiny in Greek
tragedy. In ancient Greece, the gods were believed to be the ultimate
arbiters of fate, determining the outcome of human events through
their divine power. This belief was reflected in the structure of Greek
tragedies, which often featured a tragic hero who was brought low by
a combination of fate, hubris, and human error.

In addition to the universal themes explored in "Oedipus Rex," the

portrayal of the gods in the play also provides insight into the cultural
and historical context in which the play was written.

The Greek belief in fate and destiny was influenced by many factors,
including the city-state system, in which individual cities and regions
were often in competition with one another for power and resources.

In this context, the role of the gods in shaping human destiny was a
powerful way of understanding and responding to the uncertain and
chaotic nature of the world, offering a sense of order and purpose in
the face of conflict and change.

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Oedipus, as the tragic hero of the play, is therefore a symbol of the
human condition and its struggle with fate. It is worth noting that the
role of the gods in Greek tragedy was not necessarily a rigid or
inflexible belief system. In fact, many ancient Greek philosophers,
such as Plato and Aristotle, were critical of the traditional portrayal of
the gods in tragedy, arguing that it promoted a fatalistic view of
human nature that neglected the importance of human agency and
responsibility. The role of the gods in "Oedipus Rex" is also related to
broader philosophical questions about the nature of divine power and
human agency. Socrates and Plato explored these questions in their
own works, questioning the notion of fate and free will and proposing
alternative ways of understanding human nature and morality.

In this sense, "Oedipus Rex" can be seen as part of a larger

philosophical dialogue about the relationship between humans and
the divine, exploring the complex interplay between fate, free will,
and human responsibility.

This debate about the relationship between fate and free will
continues to this day, with different cultures and philosophical
traditions offering their own perspectives on the nature of human
destiny and the role of divine power in shaping our lives.

The portrayal of the gods in "Oedipus Rex" also reflects broader

cultural attitudes towards fate and destiny in ancient Greek society. In
ancient Greece, fate and destiny were often understood as being

21
shaped by a combination of factors, including the actions of the gods,
the actions of humans, and the role of chance or randomness in
shaping events. This idea can be seen in the concept of "Moira," which
referred to a person’s allotment or portion in life, as determined by
the gods.

Additionally, the role of the gods in "Oedipus Rex" also reflects a

broader cultural understanding of the role of oracles and prophecy in
ancient Greek society. Oracles were believed to be able to
communicate with the gods and provide guidance and insight into the
future. In the case of "Oedipus Rex," the Oracle at Delphi plays a
crucial role in shaping the destiny of the protagonist, illustrating the
perceived power of prophecy in ancient Greek culture.

While the role of the gods in "Oedipus Rex" reflects the beliefs and
attitudes of ancient Greek society, it also resonates with universal
themes and questions about human nature and destiny that continue
to be relevant today. The play's exploration of the tension between
fate and free will continues to be explored in contemporary works of
literature and film, from the science fiction genre to philosophical and
psychological studies.

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 CHAPTER.3: HUMAN AGENCY AND HUBRIS
In "Oedipus Rex," the theme of human agency and hubris is closely
tied to the tragic downfall of the protagonist.

 Oedipus is a complex character, possessed of great intelligence,

courage, and determination. However, he is also arrogant and
impulsive, prone to making rash decisions and ignoring the
warnings of others. This hubris ultimately leads Oedipus to fulfill
the prophecy that he so desperately sought to avoid, as he
mistakenly believes that he can outsmart the gods and
circumvent their will. Oedipus’ excessive pride is a central aspect
of his character and a key factor in his downfall. He is unable to
accept the possibility that he may have made a mistake or that
he might be wrong, instead stubbornly insisting on pursuing his
own course of action. This pride leads him to ignore the warnings
of the prophet Tiresias and to dismiss the advice of others,
ultimately leading to his confrontation with the truth about his
identity and his role in the tragedy.
 Another aspect of human agency in "Oedipus Rex" is the role of
the Chorus, which acts as a kind of moral compass for the play.
Throughout the drama, the Chorus serves as a witness to the
unfolding tragedy, offering commentary on the events and
expressing sympathy for Oedipus and the other characters. In
this sense, the Chorus represents the collective wisdom and

23
 conscience of the community, serving as a counterbalance to the
individualistic impulses of Oedipus and the other characters.

One of the key questions that arises from the theme of human agency
in "Oedipus Rex" is whether Oedipus’ downfall is ultimately his own
fault or the result of forces beyond his control. While it is certainly true
that Oedipus’ hubris contributes to his downfall, it could also be
argued that he is a victim of circumstances beyond his control.

24
 CONCLUSION
"Oedipus Rex" remains a powerful and enduring work of drama that
explores the complexities of human nature, the limits of knowledge,
and the consequences of pride and ignorance. The play’s themes of
fate, hubris, and the interplay between human agency and the divine
will continue to resonate with audiences and readers across time and
culture, testifying to its enduring relevance and significance in the
Western literary tradition.

As a final thought, it is worth reflecting on the lasting impact and

influence of "Oedipus Rex" in shaping our understanding of tragedy
and human existence. From Shakespeare’s "Hamlet" to Freudian
psychoanalysis, the story of Oedipus has been reinterpreted and
reimagined countless times, demonstrating the enduring power of
this ancient tragedy to captivate and challenge our minds.

As we continue to grapple with the complexities of fate, free will, and

the human condition, "Oedipus Rex" remains a potent and
provocative exploration of these universal themes.

25
 BIBLIOGRAPHY

 “Oedipus Rex.” Translated by Robert Fagles. New York: Penguin

Classics, 1984. Print.
 Wikipedia/ThefreeEncyclopaedia(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki
/Oedipus_Rex)
 Oedipus Rex and the Interpretation of
Literature(https://ora.ox.ac.uk/objects/uuid:7cd677e3-02f0-
4eb9-ad69-8a6ed14614f4/files/r8336h274t)
 "Oedipus Rex" by Bernard Knox (Cambridge: Cambridge
University Press, 1977)
 "Sophocles and the Language of Tragedy" by Patrick J. Rourke
(Austin: University of Texas Press, 2011)
 "The Oedipus Complex: Myth and Misunderstanding" by
Sigmund Freud (New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 1989)
 "Fate, Character, and the Problem of Succession in Sophocles’
Oedipus the King" by G. W. Most (Ithaca, NY: Cornell University
Press, 1999)

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