Play review: Oedipus Rex (C.429 BC) by Sophocles.

Another day, another play. Is that not what they say? Regardless, it's time to have a review of my second play. Today's review is that of the Greek tragedy Oedipus Rex (C.429 BC) by Sophocles. This play is a bit of a shocker from start to finish. The moment that shook me most was when Oedipus found out the truth about his wife Jocasta and how she is his mother. I still cannot comprehend marrying your own mother and having children with her. The mythology of the Greeks is a strange one to me.

Then we have Oedipus' hamartia which leads to a turn of events I found unexpected. Hamartia is the tragic flaw of the protagonist that leads to their downfall. His determination for answers and truth, after justice ends up leaving him in the wrong. Oedipus never expected to discover that he was the one who committed the murder on his own father. This led to his "downfall". I mention "downfall" though it also became the downfall of his wife/mother. Jocasta, who ends up taking her life cannot obviously handle the truth and this causes such consequences. Then just as you think things could not get any sicker, Oedipus decides he has to be punished...

To think that his children had to suffer through all of that is tragic at the least. I wonder how they dealt with all the shocking news that comes out throughout the play. Then we have Creon, Jocasta's brother and Oedipus' brother-in-law/uncle. His fighting and almost brash attitude as if add more drama to this Greek tragedy. Overall, I think the play is a highly dramatic one full of tragedy that can be interesting to those who love the tragic dramatic plays, or anything to do with ancient Greek times. I liked reading the play, though it was not my most favourite play I have ever read. I am giving the play a 6/10.


Until next time,


Thomas.

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