The Tragic Downfall Of Oedipus The King By Sophocles

In the world of greek literature, characters often have flaws that lead to a tragic downfall. One of these tragic flaws is hubris, which is defined as â€Å"exaggerated pride or self-confidence† (Merriam-Webster). This trait is most commonly found in characters who come to power and allow themselves to be consumed by their newfound hierarchy. The play Oedipus the King by Sophocles embodies the trait and displays it in different ways throughout the story. Oedipus is a victim of hubris as seen when he disregards the prophecy given to him, challenges a group of travelers at the crossroad, and publicly announces his plans to avenge King Laius’ death. Hubris is first presented when Oedipus hears rumors that King Polybus and Queen Merope are not his biological parents. Because of these suspicions, Oedipus sought an oracle in hopes of discovering the truth about his upbringing. Instead, he is given a prophecy that he would one day murder his father and marry his own mother. Oe dipus’ hubris is introduced here as he believes that he can challenge the fate that was foretold. Fearing that the prophecy would come true, Oedipus makes his first desperate attempt to avoid fate by leaving the city of Corinth to get away from King Polybus and Queen Merope, of whom he still believes to be his biological parents. During his journey to the city of Thebes in hopes of avoiding his fate, he encounters a group of men at a crossroad. Little does Oedipus know, one of the men in that group is hisShow MoreRelatedOedipus-a Tragic Hero706 Words   |  3 PagesRunning head: Oedipus-A Tragic Hero Research Paper ENGL 102: Literature and Composition) Fall 2015 Melinda Meeds L26683811 APA Outline Thesis: In Sophocles’ â€Å"Oedipus†, Oedipus is exemplified as a tragic hero according to Aristotle’s definition because his story appeals to the reader’s humanity in the way he maintains his strengths after inadvertently causing his own downfall. I. Oedipus A. The noble birth. B. 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