Initially, the Chorus plays a significant role in “Oedipus the King”. The Chorus consists of the citizens in the town of Thebes and can be described best as background in a sense. However, the Chorus assists the reader into an immersive enviroment. The characters, emotions, and ideas are better described by the chorus, therefore allowing readers to understand and relate to0 the characters better. The purpose of the chorus is to convey deeper meaning of what other characters have to say/their emotions. For instance, according to the play, it states,
“As you have held me to my oath, I speak:
I neither killed the king nor can declare
the killer; but since Phoebus set the quest
it is his part to tell who the man is.
Right; but to put compulsion on the Gods
against their will—no man can do that.
May I then say what I think second best”? (295-305)
This passage is specifically portraying how the Chorus conveys its own ideas, as well as contribute and build off of others ideas. This keeps the play going smoothly and adds to the plot as the Chorus serves a purpose in the plot. The citizen, or chorus, asks Oedipus if they can share their opinions and ideas. Another main point is how the chorus is directly involved with the tragedy. The Chorus too is concerned and looking for the killer, further proving the point of their importance and h0ow the balance out the play. In addition, the Chorus had a mind of its own in a sense and not even Oedipus could tell how they really felt about his situation. To his surprise he wasn’t expecting them to feel angered by the situation, but turns out Oedipus was wrong and the citizens actually felt sorrowful and compassionate.
One thought on “Adib Sharif Discussion #6”
Hi Adib, when responding to classmates, I usually try to respond to responses different from mine and I really liked your response. This passage was honestly one I didn’t understand too well but hearing your perspective has helped me look at the passage in a different way. I do agree that the Chorus definitely contributes to the plot but am wondering how you see the citizens feeling sorrowful and compassionate. Was it in this passage specifically or was it something that happened after?