If asked about Greek literature, many works come to mind, yet most of them are a tragedy. Literary tragedy is well known in classic Greek plays and literature as well as the trademark of many famous Greek play righters. Though tragedy is a literary element, other elements contribute to the tragedy found in Greek works such as Oedipus the King. Three common elements that support tragedy specifically in Oedipus the King are hubris, dramatic irony, and theme.
One common literary element found in Greek tragedy is hubris. Oedipus is a prime example of someone who suffers mainly from his own flaws such as his proud nature and his attempts to prevent his fate from coming true. According to Michael Billington’s article Review: Theatre, “…it shows Oedipus …show more content…
Dramatic irony is usually found where tragedy is present in Greek works. The dramatic irony found in Oedipus the King paves the way for the tragedy found throughout the story. Before the characters, the audience becomes aware and understands the circumstances and meaning of every word and action. In an article in Financial Times by Alastair Macaulay, he describes Oedipus as “the hero who most perfectly exemplifies the tragic fall from glory, ruthlessly brushing aside every warning voice, furiously rushing to uncover the past crimes committed by- he discovers- himself.” The audience is mindful that Oedipus is the man who killed his father and married his mother long before he suspects anything, creating the ironic and tragic situation that plays out. Dramatic irony also plays out through the relationships between Oedipus and the other characters- mainly perceived amid Tiresias and Oedipus- which then leads to the tragic plot. “He is the man who was blind when he saw, who sees truth now he is blind, who knows that all he can ever see now is anguish” (Macaulay). The tragedy in Oedipus the King is captivating to the audience in part because of the ironic situation Oedipus is put in by his own meddling. Without dramatic irony, the tragedy would be less apparent to the audience and to the
One common literary element found in Greek tragedy is hubris. Oedipus is a prime example of someone who suffers mainly from his own flaws such as his proud nature and his attempts to prevent his fate from coming true. According to Michael Billington’s article Review: Theatre, “…it shows Oedipus …show more content…
Dramatic irony is usually found where tragedy is present in Greek works. The dramatic irony found in Oedipus the King paves the way for the tragedy found throughout the story. Before the characters, the audience becomes aware and understands the circumstances and meaning of every word and action. In an article in Financial Times by Alastair Macaulay, he describes Oedipus as “the hero who most perfectly exemplifies the tragic fall from glory, ruthlessly brushing aside every warning voice, furiously rushing to uncover the past crimes committed by- he discovers- himself.” The audience is mindful that Oedipus is the man who killed his father and married his mother long before he suspects anything, creating the ironic and tragic situation that plays out. Dramatic irony also plays out through the relationships between Oedipus and the other characters- mainly perceived amid Tiresias and Oedipus- which then leads to the tragic plot. “He is the man who was blind when he saw, who sees truth now he is blind, who knows that all he can ever see now is anguish” (Macaulay). The tragedy in Oedipus the King is captivating to the audience in part because of the ironic situation Oedipus is put in by his own meddling. Without dramatic irony, the tragedy would be less apparent to the audience and to the