In Oedipus the King, we can see several timeless human experiences and behaviors that are still relevant today. The idea of fate and free will is one of the most important. The drama examines the question of whether or not people have any influence over their future or are at the mercy of the gods. This concept is still pertinent today as we debate issues like determinism and personal agency.
The human urge to seek the truth is another common experience covered in the play. Oedipus is a character who pursues the truth with zeal, even when it threatens to ruin him. This component of the play refers to our drive as humans to comprehend our surroundings, as well as the extent we will go to seek the truth, even if it is unpleasant.
The play also addresses issues of power, pride, and the repercussions of arrogance. Oedipus, a great monarch, is eventually brought down by his hubris and conviction in his own supremacy. This portion of the play emphasizes the hazards of unbridled power as well as the need of humility and self-awareness.
Lastly, Oedipus the King is a contemplation on the human condition, delving into our vulnerability and death as well as our capacity for love, sacrifice, and redemption. These are timeless themes that remain relevant to readers and audiences today, making Oedipus a strong and enduring piece of literature.
3 thoughts on “Vaman Dass Week 7 Discussion”
Vaman, your insight on the human experiences are spot on. Fate and free will is a constant battle of human behavior,, going along with the phrase “God is in control” or even “what is meant to be will be”.
I also agree with your view of the need to comprehend our surroundings – this may be a part of the reason why many do not believe in God/gods – this is hard to comprehend. I think many of the characters in this play were brought down by pride.
Vaman, thank you for these thoughtful comments about some timeless human behaviors. I’m especially struck by your remarks about the human condition and specific elements such as vulnerability, contemplation of death, issues such as love, sacrifice, and the idea of redemption. I think it’s true that Oedipus’s drive for truth comes from a desire to understand his world. Some see this as extreme pride—to have an understanding really only available to the gods. It is a bit like the creation story in the Bible in which Adam and Eve want to eat of the tree of knowledge. But modern-day sensibility, with its emphasis on scientific discovery, tends to appreciate the quest for ever-increasing knowledge.
I appreciate your view of the rights and needs of humans to seek the truth. It is our human right to seek the truth, know where we come from and how we got here. As you stated, some times the truth is unpleasant. Im sure everyone has at one time or another discovered the truth can be a bitter pill to swallow. I do wonder, if knowing the truth is better, or not knowing. If Oedipus had just continued living his life not knowing the truth of it, no one would have to suffer. There are situations that I myself wish i never found out the truth, but thats life. We learn, and we move on. Oedipus was not able to do that, his truth destroyed him and his family.