Oedipus Rex as a Tragic Hero
In Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex , Oedipus exemplifies the tragic hero, following the traits Aristotle describes in his Poetics . His noble birth, tragic flaws, and ultimate downfall invoke both pity and fear, fulfilling the core requirements for a tragic hero. Key elements of his character, including hamartia (tragic flaw), hubris , anagnorisis (recognition), and peripeteia (reversal of fortune), all intertwine to bring about his tragic fate. Moreover, his influential personality, inherent goodness, and the empathy he inspires further emphasize his tragic heroism.
Hamartia (Tragic Flaw)
Oedipus’ hamartia , or fatal flaw, is central to his tragic journey. His relentless pursuit of truth, even at the risk of self-destruction, reveals his weakness. Driven by the honorable desire to free Thebes from a devastating plague, he searches for the murderer of King Laius. However, his lack of restraint ultimately leads to his downfall.
This flaw is intensified by his hubris —his excessive prid…
