In the play “Oedipus the King” by Sophocles, the author uses “languages enhanced by varying beauties” referenced by Aristotle. Sophocles uses this sophisticated language throughout the whole play but it is most prevalent when the chorus made up of old men from the city of Thebes speak. A short passage that stood out to me can be found at line 1375 to 1385 when the chorus says, “…Luckless Oedipus, whom of all men I envy not at all.” Followed by, “In as much as he shot his bolt beyond the others and won the prize of happiness complete— O Zeus—and killed and reduced to nought the hooked taloned maid of the riddling speech, standing a tower against death for my land; hence he was called my king and hence was honored the highest of all honors; and hence he ruled in the great city of Thebes. But now whose tale is more miserable?” Who the people of Thebes once saw a light during dark times was revealed to be a man with a sick past and poor judgment. I enjoyed this passage because it shows that the residents of Thebes looked at Oedipus’s situation with pity rather than disgust and anger, contrary to what Oedipus thought.
4 thoughts on “Toribio Mendez Discussion 6”
I have to agree with how emphasized how even Oedipus wasn’t able to tell what the Chorus was really thinking of him throughout the play. This just shows readers how the citizens in Thebes have a mind and voice of their own. Instead of taking away from the plot of the play, they add to the meanings of ideas, characters, and possibly challenge/answer questions the readers or characters may have. Also, as stated in my discussion post, the Chorus has another role in which readers can better connect to the characters throughout the play and can feel the emotions present. This is due to specific word choices and the way the Chorus coveys its ideas to Oedipus.
I have to agree with how you emphasized how*
I completely agree with youre explanation of this passage, this passage is also important and powerful because it is trying to convey the message of tragedy and pity for Oedipus.It also tell us about how his past actions has caused him to be in this place.
I agree with you that it shows that the inhabitants of Thebes viewed the situation of Oedipus with pity rather than disgust and anger. He was once a king admired by all. “He was called my king, and was thus honored with the highest of all honors; thus he ruled the great city of Thebes. But whose story is more tragic now?”