Oedipus' Downfall Essay Example

In many Greek tragedies, a hero’s tragic downfall is essential to the development of the story. Under this genre stands the story of Oedipus the King. A “hero” whose excessive pride and arrogance blinded him to his true identity, creating a series of unfortunate events. Blinded to the truth, Oedipus fulfills his predetermined fate, killing his father, marrying his mother, and consequently, punishing himself.

As readers are introduced to Oedipus, his hubris is made clear. In the first few pages of the story, Oedipus faces the murder of Laius, the previous ruler of Thebes. With no hesitation, Oedipus declares, “On behalf of no far-off friend, no, but in my own cause shall I dispel this taint. For whoever was the slayer of Laius might wish to take vengeance on me also with a hand as fierce. Therefore in doing right to Laius I serve myself” (Sophocles 130). Clearly illustrating his excessive pride and arrogance, he wishes to use his power as king to banish the killer of Laius for his and the kingdom’s benefit. Had Oedipus known he was the son of Laius, he would have realized that he was ultimately responsible for the murder of his father and, according to his ideals, should be banished. 

Apart from killing his father, Oedipus’ false sense of identity blinded him from the reality that he wed his mother, Jocasta. It is only towards the end of the story where Oedipus finds his identity. From here, he realizes that he had killed his father, and married his mother. With this pivotal information, Jocasta kills herself, and Oedipus stabs his eyes, leaving him blind. He justifies this self-punishment, saying, “Why was I to see when light could show me nothing sweet?” (Sophocles 161). Oedipus reflects on the atrocities he unconsciously committed and deems himself unworthy of continuing his life without punishment. Choosing to blind himself and be banished from Thebes, his tragic downfall hits rock bottom. 

What may seem like a meaningless story to some is of great importance. Oedipus the King is a prime example of how one’s false sense of identity could be what ultimately leads to one’s downfall. In this case, Oedipus’ blindness to his identity led him to unconsciously kill his father and wed his mother, leaving him blind and banished from his place of rule. Applied to our everyday lives, our downfalls may not have to be at the extent of Oedipus’ journey, however, self-identity is what allows us to make choices in life that end up determining our fate.