When embarking on a journey to self-discovery, it is critical to understand your family and family history. Knowing your family and history helps you to gain insight on who you are and plays a role in your future. Reading great literature can help us to understand ourselves by allowing us to see how others live through their journeys. In this module, you will explore Sophocles’ Greek Tragedy Oedipus the King/Oedipus Rex. This tragedy is the first part in Sophocles’ trilogy. Oedipus, the King of Thebes, is faced with the challenge of saving his people. This tragedy is the first part of Sophocles’ trilogy. Oedipus, the King of Thebes, undertakes a challenging journey to save his people while simultaneously and unknowingly venturing on a journey of self-discovery.

As Oedipus continues on his journey, he discovers more about his own family and self. Ultimately, some of what he discovers is very painful and he suffers. As you journey with Oedipus, you will learn about the use of irony, theme, and conflict. In addition, you will learn about the structure of and dynamic of Greek theater.

Getting Started

Are you familiar with Oedipus the King/Oedipus Rex? The work by Sophocles is a tragedy, meaning Oedipus will experience suffering. Observe the painting that depicts Oedipus after he solves the mysteries of his own identity. What could cause one person so much suffering? Notice that noble Oedipus is crying blood. Use this image to make some inferences as to what you think this tragedy is about.

 

Key Vocabulary

To view the definitions for these key vocabulary terms, visit the course glossary.

anagnorisis	hamartia	peripeteia
catharsis	hubris	prologue
chiton	internal conflict	scene
cothurni	maternal	situational irony
dramatic irony	mortal	sympathy
empathy	ode	tragedy
episode	obscure	tragic flaw
exodus	parados	tragic hero
external conflict	paternal	verbal irony