Wednesday, November 26, 2014

Synthesis Paragraph of Oedipus




1. How has your view of Oedipus developed over the course of the play?
          
            Throughout the course of the play my view of Oedipus remained mostly of empathy, however it did change slightly from a man of respect to one of pity. In the beginning of the play I see Oedipus as a strong leader as King for the city of Thebes, he is respectful because he respects his people. He makes a strong statement that gives the impression that he is dedicated to helping his people, he states, “But my spirit grieves for the city, for myself and all of you. I wasn’t asleep, dreaming. You haven’t wakened me-I have wept through the nights, you must know that…laboring over many paths of thought” (74-78). This shows how Oedipus provides a sense of comfort for his people; that he feels the sorrow they feel. As the play progresses, and Oedipus realizes a piece of knowledge is preventing him from moving on and helping his city, he becomes angry and miserable, he say's, “Blind, lost in the night, endless night that nursed you! You can’t hurt me or anyone else who sees the light- you can never touch me” (425-428). It’s clear that the truth got to Oedipus and created a pitiful being. Although many view Oedipus as an angry, disrespectful man, which may be true, this only happened because he was prevented and taunted from not knowing the truth about his life. I can sympathize with Oedipus because it is frustrating not knowing or understanding something hidden. Everyone should have the right to know his or her origins, whether it has to do with a ‘prophecy’ or simply curiosity!


2. Ultimately, what important understandings have you gained about family, society, leadership, etc., through Oedipus and his tragedy?
          
            After reading this play, I have realized many ideas about how the truth is a powerful piece of knowledge that can either destroy you or enchant you, but either way it will always change you and how you perceive yourself. The truth behind Oedipus’ origins in this case were severe, as Oedipus did not only uncover that he killed his father, the King of Thebes, and learn that his wife was his mother, but also unknowingly caused the downfall of his reputation, title and respect from others. I believe that social norms have affected the way we perceive people’s actions and that no matter the circumstances of such actions; people will always have this mentality to judge one.












Important Quotes, Analysis and response of Oedipus


Quote #1



          
           Oedipus’ power and confidence as a King is clearly shown through his tone in this quote. The first sentence depicts Oedipus’ strength as a leader. He states, “you have me to fight for you”, he emphasizes “me” indicating that he is much apart of this problem as his people are. He will be the one to solve this issue, just as he solved the riddle of the Sphinx. He describes himself as “Apollo’s champion” which shows his pride for himself-he believes that because he mentions Apollo to the people of Thebes, they will believe that Oedipus has the same power Apollo does. However, Oedipus sounds very convincing when he states firmly, “I’ll rid us from this corruption”. He displays responsibility for the city and takes this issue into his own hands by reaffirming the people that he will bring balance to Thebes.


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Quote #2


          
  Oedipus is shocked that Tiresias wont reveal the truth to him. Oedipus views himself as powerful king, which ultimately makes him believe that he is able to have everything he asks for. When Tiresias says, “You bear your burdens, I’ll bear mine” he explains that he does not intend to reveal the truth to Oedipus, that his business is his, and Oedipus’ business is his own- ultimately saying that Oedipus should respect his choices. He specifically says “burden” because to emphasize the idea that revealing the truth will be misfortunate. Obviously, this does not settle well for Oedipus. He begins by saying he is surprised and unsettled by what Tiresias has just said to him. However, when he says “…unfriendly too to the state that bred and reared you…” it evokes a sense of anger. Tiresias had grown up in Thebes and he was cared and supported by everyone and to not use his power to help the “state” reveals a sense of disrespect towards Oedipus and Thebes.

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Quote #3


            Tiresias begins by asking a rhetorical question, and quickly points out the faults which Oedipus faces. He sounds very condescending throughout, especially when he states, “you with your precious eyes, you’re blind to the corruption of your life”. Not only does Tiresias infuriate and insult Oedipus, he reveals a small fraction of the truth to Oedipus. Dramatic irony is shown in this part, as the Tiresias mocks Oedipus’ sight by explaining that he cannot see the truth corrupting his life. However, Tiresias is still tormenting Oedipus with the truth. When he says, “who are your parents? Do you know?” Tiresias is taunting Oedipus because he knows the truth behind the questions and Oedipus doesn’t, revealing a sense of power. By saying, “Do you know?” after his previous question, Tiresias emphasizes the idea that Oedipus is clueless and he uses this repeated question to anger him. When Oedipus responds to Tiresias’ insulting demeanor he once again reveals his anger through frustration. He shouts out, “Enough!” which clearly expresses that he is unable and does not want to hear anything bad about himself and cannot handle the anger that boils him up. When he says for Tiresias to “vanish!” he seems to have no idea how to act accordingly and properly voice his thoughts. Filled with pride, Oedipus assumes that everyone will do what he says, and is angered quickly when people don’t.



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Quote #4


          This is Oedipus’ collapse as a powerful King, a father and a human. From once getting what he wanted by stating it, to now begging for it. Creon, a man that Oedipus despised for threatening his rule as King, now rules over Oedipus because, the truth about Oedipus’ past was revealed and ultimately destroyed his rule and reputation. Phrases such as “pity them”, “only hope”, “promise me”, “noble Creon” all convey a sense of sadness and hope. Oedipus expresses his sorrow as he pleads for Creon to provide his children well being. Oedipus argues that they are Creon’s “own flesh and blood” believing that Creon will look after the children because they are “so young” and blood related. However, it seems as though Creon is more disgusted than he is pitiful. This is shown when Creon “draws back” from Oedipus’ reach. This act symbolizes that Oedipus is alone; there is no one to help him now.


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