Arrogance In Oedipus The King Essay

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Abraham Lincoln once stated that “Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power.” The most distinguished characters in literature have all faced the same internal struggle to repel their arrogance. Conquering one’s inner hubris establishes the status of a hero, as demonstrated by Oedipus. In Sophocles’ ageless play, Oedipus Rex, Sophocles develops the theme that fighting the excessive arrogance within can truly defines one’s character by using dramatic irony and the motif of sight/blindness.
Throughout the play, readers witness Oedipus forge an illusion of innocence and holiness. Only the final moments does Oedipus cast aside his incessant arrogance to see his mirage shatter around him. As king and savior of Thebes, Oedipus believes he could not be the killer of King Laios. Arrogance and pride clouds his logic and does not consider his own guilt. In one instance, Jocasta warns Oedipus that pursuing the hunt for his true mother could reveal atrocious secrets. Nonetheless, Oedipus disregards her warning, declaring “I can not be dishonored. Luck is my mother; the passing months, my brothers, have seen me rich and poor.” (58) Too deeply consumed by his …show more content…
Sophocles validates this theme in his unprecedented play, Oedipus Rex. Oedipus dismissed unambiguous evidence brought before him by highly regarded prophets and witnesses, insistent that there is no logical way for him to be the murderer. Oedipus also remains wholeheartedly incognizant about new incriminating information. Given these points, one can learn that no matter the social status, arrogance can precipitate ruin to one’s life. The villains in today’s news allowed themselves to become drunk in power, obliging as their hubris takes control, causing society to view them as a
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