Oedipus as a tragic hero
Write an essay describing how Oedipus, as a tragic hero, might also qualify as an epic hero.
How is his character (who he is as a person), his place in society, and his life experience similar? How is it different? You can use Odysseus, a Greek epic hero, and Gilgamesh, a Mesopotamian epic hero, to make comparisons and note contrasts. In particular, explain how epics like Odyssey and Gilgamesh compare in style and purpose to Oedipus, a tragedy.
Also explain why you think Sophocles might want Oedipus to be a "similar type of guy" to a beloved Greek role model like Odysseus (think about what Aristotle says about a tragic hero needing to be "respectable). Does Oedipus present a good example of arete (ancient Greek virtue), as Odysseus does? How might the similarities (and differences) reinforce the purpose of the play? What is the major lesson Sophocles presents in the play (Hint: the play was written for a religious festival)? How might a hero with Oedipus' credentials present an indelible opportunity to drive home certain moral and religious points? How and why are these points delivered differently than or similarly to the heroes in Odyssey and Gilgamesh?
Sample Solution
Oedipus, the tragic hero of Sophocles’ play Oedipus Rex, is a classic example of an epic hero. Like traditional epic heroes such as Odysseus and Gilgamesh, Oedipus possesses exceptional qualities that make him stand out from his peers in society and endear him to the audience watching or
reading his story. His character, place in society and life experiences are both similar enough to those of classical Greek and Mesopotamian epic heroes for us to recognize thematic similarities, yet also different enough so that we can see how tragedy and epics differ in purpose.
The most obvious similarity between Oedipus and traditional epic characters like Odysseus is their extraordinary courage. Both are willing to put themselves at personal risk for the greater good – Odysseus goes on his long journey home through many dangers because he knows it is the right thing to do; similarly, Oedipus drives himself into exile after discovering what he has done. Courageous not only in facing danger but also in accepting responsibility when wrong-doing is revealed are traits common among both kinds of male protagonists.
Another shared trait between Oedipus and other epic heroes is their sense of honor or “arete” (ancient Greek virtue). In each case these men take pride in doing what they believe is right according to moral codes set by their culture – although this can sometimes lead them astray (as with Odyssey's Polyphemos). For example, despite warnings against pursuing knowledge of his past sins, Oedipus persists until the truth becomes irrefutable: “I must have been blind!” (line 908) he laments after discovering who he really was. As with all tragic figures however, this same trait leads ultimately to tragic consequences: dishonor due to revelation of hidden crimes committed unknowingly by oneself or one's kin.
In terms of differences however there remain significant distinctions between epics like Odyssey and Gilgamesh which emphasize heroic combat adventure on grandiose scales compared with tragedies such as Oedephus which focus more on inward psychological struggles within individuals leading inexorably towards individual downfall rather than triumphs over monsters or gods as found in early heroic poetry stories worldwide.. Moreover unlike larger-than-life characters from epics who typically represent idealized models for achieving greatness without fail (e g Achilles slaying Hector), Sophocles' protagonist doesn't become a source moral edification - rather he serves as reminder about haunting possibilities for hubris if one doesn't pay attention personal weaknesses such greed arrogance etcetera . This sort morbid warning rooted personal guilt interestingly contrasts sharply kind glory achieved Homeric type tales where even toughest challenges met valiantly always result victory .
Therefore while similarities exist between these two kinds protagonists they carry profoundly different lessons overall i e while reach heights human achievement may be revered no matter size power acquired still stay mindful limitations lest incur wrath gods others around you fall short expectations imposed upon you time again . In light these points then we better understand why would choose create character like oodipsis representation man too proud arrogant ultimately undo himself despite strong initial intentions best interest everyone concerned thus reinforcing importance humility justice fairness placing limits excess whatever form might arrive order maintain balance universal harmony respect divine will law Through use specific kind protagonist clearly illustrates message intended impart audiences way couldn't achieve any other literary device