Finding Identity In Sophocles Oedipus The King

In the tragedy of Oedipus Rex by Sophocles, a man is on a quest to find his true identity, but ends up finding his fate to be terrifying. The story begins when the citizens of Thebes beg King Oedipus to save them from the plague. Oedipus has previously dealt with the monstrous Sphinx, so they thought he could somehow end this plague. Oedipus sent his brother in-law Creon to the Oracle of Delphi to get help from Apollo. Later Creon comes back and reports that the oracle said,“ Find for me the king’s murderer.” Oedipus seeks info about who killed Laius, so Oedipus welcomes prophet Tiresias to the palace. Tiresias tells Oedipus that he is the wound, the cause of the plague in Thebes. Oedipus doesn't believe this nonsense and responds by saying …show more content…
The Herald from Corinth tells Jocasta, about Polybus’ death and that the Corinthians want Oedipus to be their king. Oedipus later finds out that Polybus is dead, so he knows that part of the prophecy wasn't true, but he still fears the prophecy. Herald tells Oedipus that Meropi and Polybus are not his true parents, which really surprises him. Jocasta feels horror and dread as she realizes the truth of Oedipus’ identity, but she still wants to protect him because she loves him. The Shepard reluctantly shares past events and Oedipus realizes the truth about his parents. The citizens reacts with pity towards Oedipus. After being overwhelmed by the truth of her husband's past, Jocasta tragically hangs herself. Then Oedipus finds her feeling dread, he's so ashamed by himself that he stabs his eyeballs over and over. He suffers as he processes the truth about his true relationships. The citizens of Thebes are horrified, but are kind, sympathetic and pity Oedipus. Creon enters, and Oedipus says banish me. Creon says, “ I must refer to the oracle and gods.” Oedipus doesn't want to leave Antigone and Ismene, he asks Creon to take care of them and also to bury his wife. Finally Oedipus leaves with