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Examples Of Innocence In Oedipus Rex

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Examples Of Innocence In Oedipus Rex
Innocence and guilt of Oedipus

In the text, “Oedipus Rex”, shows the nature of innocence and guilt. The meaning

of innocence and guilt is for doing the right actions, but also commits a crime. The text shows

this theme, nature of innocence and guilt by using characterization, foil, and mood. This

proves how Oedipus will cause guilt without knowing the truth.

Characterization shown by Oedipus being a role model in the city of Thebes in northern Greece, in the beginning. He provides needs for his citizens and lift the plague that threatens to

destroy the city. Therefore, everyone of Thebes shows venerate to him. For example, the priest

considered Oedipus the greatest man, “Great Oedipus, O powerful King Of Thebes” (Sophocles
…show more content…

This proven how the citizens trusted Oedipus. Through out the story, without knowing his

father, he killed King Laius on the way to Thebes and married his mom, Jostca. Now, Oedipus is

considered ignorance and the arrogance that he can outsmart people.

Foil is shown by Oedipus and Creon; they're the opposite of each other. Oedipus is more

conceited leader, who'll stop at no action and can solve any problems. He's considered

stubborn and can overpower his will. Creon is more calm; he says, Look at you, sullen in

yielding, brutal in your rage—you will go too far. It's perfect justice:natures like yours are

hardest on themselves (746-748; Fagles) he listens to the rules and dare not to break the laws.

Even if he does, he'll remains calm, unlike Oedipus. In the text, it shows Oedipus arrogance as it

says,“Oedipus is anxious to hear the whole story of his humble birth from the messenger and

does not fear anything, even if it reveals that he is of lowly birth because "being born what I am

I could never be another;" (sophlces 111).

Mood shown in this text is wretched and devastating. Oedpius has now known


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