Free Oedipus the King Essays: The Downfall of Oedipus Rex :: Oedipus the King Oedipus Rex

The Downfall(a) of Oedipus Rex The greek playwright, Sophocles, was born around 496 B.C., and died in 406 B.C. During his life, he wrote many plays, one of which was Oedipus Rex. Sophocles was the first playwright to add the third actor to the play. Actors were able to perfrom many different parts, but the play was limited to only three actors and the chorus. (Literature, page 1065) The downfall of Oedipus transpired due to the sad flaw of his character. Oedipus was very temperamental and became easily angered. He was a prideful individual who desired to be a hero and avenge the death of Laius. His earnest need to know the truth, and have the proof that it indeed was the truth also led to his ruin. Oedipus had a very short temper. Oedipus did not want to hear what Tiresias had to cite after he begged him to tell him all that he knew. Am I to listen to such things from him May you be damned Get out of present at once Turn around and go (Literature, Oedipus the King, Ln. 434-436 , page 1085) Oedipus went into a rage when Tiresias told him about the evils that Oedipus was living with. Oedipus took great pride in saving muckle and being seen a hero. He wanted the death of Laius to be avenged and he had to be the one to find the murderer and punish him. Ill fight for him, Ill run no means untried, to cach the one who did it with his hand... (Literature, Oedipus the King, Ln. 270-271, page 1081) He did not want to let the people of Thebes down, and he wanted to show that he would be a true hero once again. Oedipus was in pursuit of the truth to find out what really happened with his birth and life. Oedipus was searching for the truth and needed to know all the facts in order to convict the murderer. Ah All of it was destined to be true (Literature, Oedipus the King, Ln.