Tragedy and the Classical Hero: An Examination of Oedipus

Introduction

The term "tragedy" denotes an event marked by misfortune and sorrow. However, when we place "tragedy" within the context of a play or story, it takes on a more specific meaning. In this literary context, tragedy often revolves around a protagonist of high power and stature. Such narratives typically follow the development of a central character who grapples with conflicts involving superior forces, which can manifest as destiny, free will, or the rule of divine entities. The culmination of a tragedy often sees the protagonist's descent into a state of deterioration, resulting in the loss of everything they hold dear.

A tragic hero, in this framework, is an individual who shapes their own fate, often through actions that inadvertently lead to their own undoing.

Aristotle's Perspective on Tragic Heroes

Among the many influential ancient philosophers, Aristotle's views on tragic heroes hold significant sway in the realm of literature. Aristotle defines tragedy as the conflict between human goodness and the harsh realities of life, where well-intentioned actions can yield unintended and unfavorable outcomes.

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In Sophocles' play "Oedipus," the titular character, Oedipus, aligns closely with Aristotle's criteria for a classic tragic hero, possessing several key characteristics.

Characteristics of a Tragic Hero

According to Aristotle's definition of a tragic hero, several crucial characteristics must be present. Firstly, a tragic hero should be realistic and true to life. They must exhibit consistency in their actions and remain true to themselves within the narrative's context. Additionally, they must make errors in judgment throughout the course of the play, with the consequences of these actions opposing their initial intentions.

One of the fundamental aspects of a tragic hero is their ability to elicit feelings of pity and fear from the audience. Pity arises from our deep sympathy for a character whose life is unraveling, despite them not being overtly virtuous or wicked enough to warrant such misfortune. Fear, on the other hand, stems from the sheer horror that tragedy can befall anyone, regardless of their social standing.

Oedipus as a Tragic Hero

Applying Aristotle's criteria, it becomes evident that Oedipus qualifies as a tragic hero. Oedipus holds a position of great power and influence in the city he governs, and his life begins to deteriorate before the eyes of the community as he embarks on a quest to uncover his true identity. According to Aristotle, a tragic hero must be the architect of their downfall, and Oedipus continually insists on pursuing answers regarding his origins.

Aristotle contends that a tragic hero's fate should be undeserved, with their punishment far surpassing their wrongdoings. Moreover, a tragic hero must be someone of importance and influence who commits an error in judgment. Oedipus's critical error in judgment is starkly evident when he, in a fit of anger, compels the seer Tiresias to reveal the truth about his parentage, demanding, "Who? Wait; who are my parents?" Oedipus's insistence on forcing answers he dreads hearing or knowing ultimately seals his tragic fate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the concept of tragedy and the role of the tragic hero, as expounded by Aristotle, offer valuable insights into the enduring appeal of narratives like Sophocles' "Oedipus." Through the lens of Aristotle's criteria, Oedipus emerges as a quintessential tragic hero, embodying the traits and characteristics that define this literary archetype. His journey, characterized by the conflict between his inherent goodness and the inexorable forces of fate, invites audiences to experience the emotions of pity and fear, ultimately leaving an indelible mark on the annals of dramatic literature.