Tragic Flaws In Oedipus The King

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Oedipus the King ,by Sophocles, is a world renowned play. The play shows tragedy, heroism, and excitement. Oedipus is married to his mother and has killed his father, however he is oblivious to the truth. When he realises what really happens, things become violent. Oedipus is in a position of power with a glaring tragic flaw who wants to do good. To begin, Oedipus is in a great position of power being that he saved the city from the sphinx and became the king of Thebes. Oedipus is not only the king of Thebes, but he is a respected and honorable leader. For example when Sophocles writes, “Oedipus, ruler of my native land,” (16). All the citizens respect and worship Oedipus. Although, Oedipus couldn’t stop the plague from spreading through the city like a wildfire. For example, when the Pope says, “ For our city, as you yourself can see/-- is badly shaken,” (22-23). When the city is at it’s worst, the citizens need Oedipus to show strength. Next, although the citizens of Thebes think Oedipus is their almighty savior, he has a glaring tragic flaw. His lack of judgement and an excessive amount of self pride. Oedipus’ lack of judgement causes him to think Creon, Oedipus’ brother in law, is working against him. For example, he exclaims, “ Creon, my old trusted family friend /-- has secretly conspired …show more content…
Although, he wants to do good and be a good person in the bottom of his heart. He wants to save the city of Thebes. He does this by “sending away his brother in-law Creon” and he does this so Creon can “find out how to save the city” (80-85). Oedipus has much care for the city of Thebes. For example when he says “You must know I’ve been shedding many tears and, in my wandering thoughts, exploring many pathways” (77-78). Oedipus shows traits like compassion and sympathy towards his city. The story shows how emotionally moved Oedipus is due to the tragedy that has struck

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Oedipus does posses a tragic flaw and this is how it lead up to it. Laius and Jocasta, king and queen of Thebes, have a son named Oedipus. Laius then finds out that Oedipus is gonna end up killing him and marry his wife, so they give Oedipus to a shepherd and assign him to kill Oedipus. However, the shepherd does not end up killing the baby and another royalty family adopts Oedipus. Later on Oedipus comprehended that he was adopted and makes his way to find his biological parents. Now on his way…

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