Introduction
Oedipus delves into the continuous philosophical discourse regarding whether human existence is determined by destiny or personal agency. The play follows the story of Oedipus, and the ultimate resolution is the growing tension leading to his tragic downfall. Oedipus is a character who unknowingly brings about a prediction that he will murder his father and marry his mother. Through the characters and events in the play, Sophocles makes a compelling argument for the role of fate in shaping human life.
Fate Versus Free Will at the Heart of the Oedipus Myth
One of the most remarkable parts in the play that reflects on the theme of fate is when Oedipus demands that Teiresias, the blind prophet, reveal the truth about the murderer of Laius. Teiresias initially refuses to speak, saying, “Well, it will come what will, though I will be mute” (Sophocles 341). Teiresias implies that the truth is inevitable, whether he reveals it or not, suggesting that fate is in control. Despite Teiresias’ reluctance, Oedipus insists, saying, “Since come it must, thy must tell me” (Sophocles 347). Here, Oedipus confronts the concept of fate and suggests that he can change his destiny by acting.
One might argue that Oedipus’s challenging the concept of fate at this moment is an example of free will. Nevertheless, it is crucial to understand that Oedipus’ determination to discover the truth does not necessarily demonstrate an exercise of personal agency. Instead, it is a manifestation of his tragic flaw – his excessive pride.
Oedipus believes that he can solve the riddle of Laius’ murder and save Thebes from the plague despite the warnings from Teiresias and others that he should not pursue it. Therefore, his actions are not truly free but are predetermined by his character flaws. Additionally, even though Oedipus challenges Teiresias’s implication that fate is in control, the outcome of the play ultimately suggests that Teiresias was right. Oedipus’s attempts to alter his destiny only lead to its fulfillment, reinforcing the idea that fate is inevitable.
However, Oedipus’s efforts to defy his fate prove to be futile. Teiresias reveals that Oedipus is responsible for Laius’ murder. Afterward, Oedipus refuses to believe the statement and accuses Teiresias of lying. Teiresias responds, “Go in and reflect on that, solve that. And if you find, I have lied, from this day onward call the prophet blind” (Sophocles 525). The prophet’s reply suggests that Oedipus’ destiny is predetermined, and he cannot alter it regardless of his actions.
It is worth considering that Teiresias, as a prophet, is biased toward believing in fate. Therefore, his response to Oedipus may not necessarily be an objective statement on the inevitability of destiny. After learning the truth about his past, Oedipus’ actions demonstrate his attempt to change his fate. He blinds himself and exiles himself from Thebes, suggesting that he is taking responsibility for his actions. Consequently, while Teiresias’ response may suggest the power of fate, it does not necessarily negate the idea of free will and the ability to take action.
Conclusion
In summary, the play Oedipus by Sophocles deals with the timeless dilemma of an individual’s destiny. The play depicts the tragic story of Oedipus, whose life is shaped by a prophecy he unknowingly fulfills. Despite his attempts to resist his fate, Oedipus ultimately succumbs to it. The ultimatum for taking such a decision leads to his tragic downfall. Teiresias’ cryptic statements about fate and Oedipus’ stubborn refusal to accept his destiny further reinforce the theme of fate in the play. Sophocles argues that, ultimately, human agency is limited, and fate is the ultimate arbiter of human life.
Work Cited
Sophocles. Oedipus the King. Translated by Robert Fagles, Viking Press, 1984.