Famous Dialogues from Oedipus Rex
"Know Thyself" - Chorus (Chorus: Ode 1)
“Count no man happy till he dies, free of pain at last.
If I myself were such, I should be wrong."
This chorus, encapsulating the famous phrase "Know thyself," reflects the theme of self-discovery and the tragic consequences of ignorance. The chorus suggests that true happiness is only attainable in death, free from the pains and sufferings of life. The acknowledgment that the speaker is not exempt from this human condition adds a layer of universality, emphasizing the inevitability of human suffering.
"Oh light! may I behold thee nevermore." - Oedipus (Ode 4)
"No more shall ye behold such sights of woe,
Deeds I have suffered and myself have wrought;
Ye shall see those my hands have done and suffer."
Oedipus, upon realizing the truth about his actions, expresses his horror and despair at the darkness that now surrounds him. The use of the phrase "Oh light! may I behold thee nevermore" reflects Oedipus's intense desire to remain in ignorance. The realization of his own deeds, the suffering he has caused, and the consequences he must face contribute to the tragic intensity of the moment.
"I count myself the son of Chance, the great goddess, mistress of all. Destiny, my mother." - Oedipus (Scene 1)
"I count myself the son of Chance, the great goddess, mistress of all. Destiny, my mother."
Oedipus, in a moment of irony, acknowledges the role of chance and destiny in his life. The reference to himself as the "son of Chance" highlights the unpredictability of fate. Despite his earlier confidence in his ability to control his destiny, Oedipus now recognizes the overwhelming influence of forces beyond his control, particularly the role of destiny as his mother, shaping the course of his life.
"Manifold the shapes of Fortune, many her shapes, and varied, now evil, now good." - Chorus (Chorus: Ode 4)
"Manifold the shapes of Fortune, many her shapes, and varied, now evil, now good."
The chorus reflects on the capricious nature of Fortune, emphasizing its ever-changing and unpredictable forms. This dialogue speaks to the broader theme of the play, highlighting the role of fate and the volatile nature of human existence. It reinforces the idea that individuals are subject to the whims of Fortune, and their destinies are shaped by forces beyond their control.
"I say thou livest with thy nearest kin in infamy, and in the light of day I pray that never under my roof the doom of death may overspread his children. Let God, the avenger, mark him down as lost." - Oedipus (Scene 1)
"I say thou livest with thy nearest kin in infamy, and in the light of day I pray that never under my roof the doom of death may overspread his children. Let God, the avenger, mark him down as lost."
In this intense dialogue, Oedipus unknowingly pronounces a curse upon himself. His words, fueled by anger and determination to punish the murderer of Laius, foreshadow the tragic revelation of his own guilt. The irony lies in Oedipus condemning the unknown killer while, in reality, he is condemning himself and his own family to a fate marked by infamy and death.
These dialogues exemplify the depth and complexity of "Oedipus Rex," showcasing Sophocles' ability to weave profound themes of fate, knowledge, and the human condition into the fabric of the play. Each line contributes to the tragic unfolding of the narrative and leaves a lasting impact on the audience.
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