Who is the Protagonist in 'Oedipus Rex'?

Sophocles’ ancient Greek tragedy, Oedipus Rex, is a compelling exploration of human vulnerability and the consequences of one's choices. At the heart of this tragic story is the central character, King Oedipus. His name, Rex, means 'King' in Latin, aligning with the title. Oedipus’ narrative is a classic of the Greek tragic tradition, where a hero, often of noble birth or status, falls from a state of high acclaim to one of despair due to a tragic flaw or weakness. This tragic flaw, often referred to as the character's 'Achilles heel' in modern medicine, is a key element that ultimately leads to the protagonist's downfall.

A Noble Birth, a Dark Prophecy

Ancient Greek tragedies frequently feature heroes who possess a noble lineage but fall through their own hubris or unwisdom. In the case of Oedipus, the stage is set for his tragic journey from the moment he is cast out as a newborn due to a prophecy received by his father, King Laius. The oracle at Delphi foretold that Oedipus would one day kill his father and marry his mother. Despite this dire warning, the King and Queen, unaware of their son's fate, entrusted Oedipus to a herdsman to be left to die in the wilderness. However, the herdsman, out of compassion, delivered the baby to a nearby Corinthian shepherd, who then presented Oedipus to King Polybus and Queen Merope in Corinth, pretending he was their own child.

The Protagonist and His Tragic Flaw

The central character, Oedipus, stands as the true protagonist of this narrative. The play emphasizes his constant presence and the central role he plays in the unfolding drama. Oedipus' tragic flaw is rooted in his hubris, his overwhelming pride and arrogance. This flaw is evident in his unwavering conviction that he, as King of Thebes, can solve even the most complex problems. His hubris manifests in his refusal to accept the truth, even when faced with overwhelming evidence of his past. His confidence in his own wisdom and abilities blinds him to the reality of his situation.

The Unraveling of Truth

The pivotal moments of the play come when Oedipus learns the truth about his origins, which aligns with the prophecy. As the city of Thebes struggles with a horrifying plague and the curse of a sphinx, Oedipus assumes full responsibility and his true nature begins to surface. He vows to investigate the circumstances surrounding the murder of the previous king, Laius, and find the perpetrator. His investigative prowess and fairness earn him the support of the Thebans, but upon closer inspection, he uncovers the horrifying truth that the man he considers his father, King Polybus, was not his true parent.

Conclusion: The Final Descent

The climax of Oedipus Rex reveals the tragic proportion of Oedipus' flaw and the consequences of his actions. As Oedipus learns that he has not just killed his father but also married his mother, he realizes the full extent of the intrigue and deceit that led to his rise and subsequent downfall. His pride and arrogance, which once served him well, now serve as his downfall as he struggles to find solace and redemption.

This exploration of hubris and its repercussions provides a profound and timeless insight into the human condition, influencing countless readers and scholars for centuries. The narrative of Oedipus Rex is a critical study in the power of faults and the unyielding nature of destiny.