Oedipus Rex is a classic tale of misfortune and commitment to the rule of the communal law. Ancient Greece was very different than the world we know today, but in many ways our lives revolve around very similar concepts patterns and themes as did theirs. At the beginning of the drama Oedipus Rex, the religious framework of Greek mythology is evident with all the talk of Apollo and the plague that is devastating Thebes. This transcendent force of the Gods is present throughout the drama in the forms of the oracles, prophecies, and seemingly inescapable fate. These religious themes while less popular in mainstream media, is very prevalent today. The character of Oedipus is an abundant source of literary/dramatic story telling, and shows the transition of a man from king to beggar, and that transition is inherently self-inflicted. In the beginning Oedipus is fervent in his prosecution of the killer of the previous king, quickly laying down curses upon the one found guilty of the murder of the late king Laius, but as he learns unsavory information he is quick to blame others, claiming conspiracy and deceit of his brother in law Creon and others. This immediate anger turns to fear and regret as Oedipus begins to realize that he might be the killer. This is where, in my opinion, the main theme enters. Loyalty, Oedipus, upon finding out that he may be the killer, adamantly searches for the truth even though the truth might well be his downfall. In the process of unraveling the events of king Laius’s death, Oedipus find out more and more damning evidence of his guilt in the murder, but also in the incestual relationship with his mother/wife. These tragic and heartbreaking events would lead most to run away from the consequences or try to escape the blame, but not with Oedipus, it is his loyalty to Thebes, the truth and to ultimately the concept of fate that Oedipus chooses to value. This loyalty is evident in his self-mutilation and exile. These topics are ancient and modern alike and the lessons of tragic King Oedipus are this pertinent today.
