This week we began reading Oedipus Rex by Sophocles. We learned that the story of Oedipus Rex is that of a 'tragic hero' and what Aristotle deemed the 'perfect tragedy'. It takes place in Greece and details the story of a man who could not escape his fate - he was destined to kill his father and marry and beget children by his mother. His mother and father, after finding this out, sent him away to be killed by a shepherd. The shepherd could not bring himself to do it, so Oedipus was brought before the king and queen of Thebes (who could not have children) to be taken in as an adopted son.
He ends up moving back to his hometown after hearing of his prophecy and thinking that his adopted parents were his real ones. This is when the madness starts.
I find the fact that we know Oedipus's destiny at the beginning and we just have to wait for things to unfold to be very compelling and interesting. I enjoy reading it so far. We have to read more over the weekend and I'll update when I'm finished with my reading.
1 comment:
Naomiiii,
I completely agree with everything you have said. I also very much enjoy reading Oedipus Rex, for the very reason that we know something bad is going to happen (beyond what had already happened) and we are virtually waiting in anticipation for his horrible fate. It's so interesting! I wish authors or play writes these days would take a hint for Ancient Greece, they need to try harder to make a compelling story!
(I guess that could just go to Stephanie Meyer) heheehe.
Love,
Kaylennn
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