Oedipus Compare And Contrast

There is a great deal of aspects put into the making of a wholesome play. Although some plays are simplistic, others are more complex than some people can wrap their brain around. The play Oedipus Rex, written by Sophocles, shows a complex and ravishing combination of the contrasting of characters, the development of a tragic hero, and the progression of the play throughout one important and unforgettable interaction between two characters. In Oedipus Rex, there are many characters that contrast Oedipus, the main character. The person that shows an obvious contrast to Oedipus is the blind prophet, Tiresias. Tiresias’ brute honesty shows just how stubborn and hard-headed Oedipus truly is. The text states, “None of you understand, but I shall never/ reveal my own troubles, and so I shall not say yours.” This proves how Tiresias really tries to assist Oedipus with his original prophecy that was revealed when he was just an infant. The text also states, “Yes, go! When you are here, you are in my way,/ but rushing off you cannot pain us further.” This shows how much Oedipus would rather insult Tiresias instead of just letting him go back home to avoid the curse being put
The main reason Oedipus becomes a tragic hero due to his encounter with Tiresias is that him knowing his prophecy then makes him realize he is forever cursed and his death is sure to come. The text states, “Nor do you/ perceive the multitude of other evils,/ which make you the equal of your children.” This shows that Tiresias looks at Oedipus’ situation as evil on numerous stages. The text also states, “This say will sire you and destroy you.” This shows that Oedipus acknowledging his prophecy led to Tiresias informing him that he would regret that day. This all proves how Oedipus’ encounter with Tiresias inevitably led to his death which aided him to eventually become a tragic hero by the end of the