I have to write a term paper using examples from the text oedipus and discuss and analyze the literart devices of symbolism and irony in the play. I must discuss how these devices help develop on the motifs sophocles utilized in his work.
I have started to brain storm and came of with a few examples of irony and symbolism. For Irony I ahve came up with "eyes" oedipus's could see, but he was blind to the fact he was the murders of the king (his father) and terius "the blind prophet" was blind but actually could see the future. 2 the second irony was the curse he was given to kiler which the reader knew it was him. For symbolism I have the feet (oedipus was mean swollen foot) his feet were pinned together at birth which means his destiny was already determine. I also got the herphard who protect him whn his first mother gave him away. I have to come up with six each, but I'm really stuck. I also need help with example of some of sophocles's motifs. I'm not sure if that means his themes or is the professor looking for something else?
Your selections so far sound really good.
In this website, you can read the section on themes and motifs to see the difference:
http://www.sparknotes.com/drama/oedipus/
In the Book Notes section here, you'll find information, too:
http://www.bookrags.com/Oedipus_the_King
Let us know what you find and how you'll add to your ideas.
=)
Here are some sites that may be of help.
http://www.k-state.edu/english/baker/english251/sg-Sophocles-OR-dramatic_irony.htm
http://www.sparknotes.com/drama/oedipus/themes.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oedipus_the_King
It sounds like you're on the right track with your analysis of the literary devices of irony and symbolism in the play "Oedipus." Let's further explore how these devices help develop the motifs that Sophocles utilized in his work.
1. Irony:
- The irony of Oedipus's eyesight and blindness: You've already mentioned this example, where Oedipus possesses physical sight but is blind to the truth of his own identity, while the blind prophet, Tiresias, can "see" the future.
- The irony of the curse: Oedipus is cursed to kill his father and marry his mother, yet he remains unaware of this prophecy until it unfolds before him.
To come up with more examples of irony, try analyzing the actions and words of the characters in the play. Look for situations where the outcome is contrary to what is expected or where there is a significant difference between appearance and reality.
2. Symbolism:
- The symbolism of feet: You've rightly noted the significance of Oedipus's swollen foot, which represents his predetermined fate. Additionally, you could explore how Oedipus's literal journey, both physical and metaphorical, is symbolized through his feet and plays into the motif of fate and destiny.
- The symbolism of the shepherd: The shepherd who saves Oedipus as an infant can symbolize both protection and concealment, contributing to the overarching motif of secrets, hidden truths, and the consequences of ignorance.
To find more symbols in the play, pay attention to recurring images or objects that carry deeper meaning. Symbolism can often be found in nature, actions, character names, or even specific events.
3. Motifs:
A motif refers to a recurring theme or idea throughout a work of literature. In the case of "Oedipus," some possible motifs you can explore include:
- Fate and free will: This motif centers around the concept that Oedipus's fate was predetermined, yet his actions and choices contribute to how it ultimately unravels.
- Knowledge and ignorance: The motif of knowledge versus ignorance manifests in the characters' pursuits of the truth, their blindness to it, and the consequences that stem from their understanding or lack thereof.
- Identity and self-discovery: Oedipus's search for his true identity and the eventual realization of his own disastrous actions can be considered a significant motif in the play.
To further analyze these motifs, examine how they are developed throughout the play, how they impact the characters' actions and decisions, and their overall significance in conveying Sophocles's intended messages.
Remember, it's essential to read the play thoroughly, take notes, and make connections between various elements. This approach will help you identify more examples and delve deeper into the analysis of symbolism, irony, and motifs in "Oedipus."