Similarities Between Oedipus And Hamlet

Oedipus and Hamlet are two main characters in famous Greek tragic plays known around the world. Greek tragic heroes are characters who suffer from their own selfish pride that eventually causes their demise. In the play, Oedipus the King, the main character Oedipus becomes a tragic hero by having excessive arrogance the eventually leads him to lose his title, loved ones, and even his own eyesight. Conversely, Hamlet puts his pride aside and chooses to be patient and listen to others around him, seeking his own proof before coming to conclusion. Although both come to a tragic end, they choose very different ways of reaching that point, one dying embarrassed, ashamed, without any respect and the other dying with his title, respected and honored …show more content…
He is asking the prophet infront of a public crowd to reveal who is the murder of the previous king of Thebes , Laius, and when the prophet refuses to divulge the information Oedipus becomes infuriated. He is pompusly demanding to know information that will eventually lead to his ruin. Instead of understanding that it might not be in his best interest to know – he foolishly continues to pry. Ironically, demanding to find and prosecute that person who killed Laius even though it is himself. Oedipus …show more content…
He boasted about himself infront of the city, speaking of his accomplishments and fame, by disrespecting the gods and their wisdom disregarding their prophecy, and lastly by trying to control his fate which consequently led to his demise. Conversely, Hamlet displayed through his actions that he was not arrogant but just a human being expressing his sincere emotions regarding his father’s death; hamlet respected the gods or spirit world and didn’t foolish act to quick but made a plan keeping as many people safe and uninvolved, and finally he didn’t run from his fate but accepted it for what it was and courageously faced it. Not suffering from the flaw of hubris Hamlet contrasts the idea of a Greek tragic