Hi there, I am writing a english essay on 'Sophocles Oedipus the King' and I am trying to prove that Oedipus is not responsible for what happens to him.
Could you help me come up with three strong arguments to support this.
Another person suggested a good defense for escaping responsibility would be ignorance. I agree on that, he was ignorant of whom he killed, and whom he married.
Is the the diminished mental capacity defense? or the devil made him do it? or as Eve said, the serpent made me do it? or as Adam said, the woman made me do it? Or in this case, is the Oracle the one who caused it?
I don't know how you can find three strong arguments, but I would in the finest Greek tradition, blame the Gods for it. But I think you will still be weak on motive.
I will think on it, so come back later, I might think of some specific arguments. It is not easy putting logical causal forces in Greek literature.
Of course! In order to support the argument that Oedipus is not responsible for what happens to him in Sophocles' "Oedipus the King," here are three strong arguments you could consider:
1. The role of fate and prophecy: Oedipus is destined to fulfill a prophecy — he will marry his mother and kill his father. The prophecy, which was predicted by the Oracle of Delphi, sets the events in motion. Oedipus has no control over the prophecy, making it difficult to hold him responsible for its fulfillment.
To strengthen this argument, you can refer to specific passages in the play where the prophecy is mentioned, such as when Tiresias, the blind prophet, reveals the truth to Oedipus. Additionally, you can explore Oedipus's efforts to avoid the prophecy, which demonstrate his lack of responsibility. For example, he leaves his home in Corinth to prevent harming his adopted parents, King Polybus and Queen Merope.
2. The manipulations of others: Throughout the play, there are characters who actively manipulate Oedipus, leading to his eventual downfall. Oedipus is deceived by his parents, King Laius and Queen Jocasta, who abandon him as an infant to avoid the prophecy. Despite their intentions, this act places Oedipus in a situation where he unknowingly fulfills the prophecy, further diminishing his responsibility.
Another character to consider is the Shepherd who was ordered by King Laius to abandon the infant Oedipus on a mountainside. The Shepherd's decision to give him to another shepherd, instead of killing him outright, ultimately contributes to Oedipus's fate. These manipulations highlight the extent to which Oedipus is a victim of circumstance rather than an agent of his own actions.
3. Oedipus's lack of knowledge: Oedipus remains ignorant of his true identity and the circumstances surrounding his birth throughout much of the play. He is genuinely unaware that he has married his mother and killed his father. This lack of knowledge prevents Oedipus from making informed choices or understanding the consequences of his actions, further absolving him of responsibility.
To build this argument, you can focus on key moments in the play where Oedipus's ignorance is emphasized, such as when he argues with Tiresias, refusing to believe the prophet's accusations. Additionally, you can analyze Oedipus's reactions when the truth starts to unravel, showcasing his genuine shock and horror.
Remember, when presenting these arguments in your essay, it is important to support them with textual evidence from the play. This will demonstrate a thorough understanding of the material and strengthen your overall argument. Good luck with your essay!