Oedipus: A Tragic Hero

In Sophocles’, Oedipus The King, Oedipus is depicted as a tragic hero who embodies many hamartia. Oedipus is a tragic hero because a tragic hero is a dynamic character who suffers for the good of his people, has a tragic flaw which leads to a downfall, and experiences many hardships. He continually causes problems for himself and further advances the central conflict of the story. Furthermore, Oedipus’ hubristic nature, quick temper, and determination depict him as a tragic hero and lead to his tragic downfall. Oedipus’ inflated self-image and ego reflect his hubristic attitude. After the people of Thebes arrive with olive branches, Oedipus addresses them, “Here I am, myself world-famous Oedipus” (Sophocles 6). Calling himself “world-famous”

After Oedipus enters from the palace doors and speaks about the murder of Laius, Oedipus states, “As for the murderer himself, I call down a curse on him, whether that unknown figure may be one or among many. May he drag out an evil death-in-life in misery” (15). Oedipus announcing a curse on the killer shows his commitment to his people and persistence to find the truth. - Likewise, after Tiresias tells the people of Thebes and Oedipus that Oedipus is the murderer, Oedipus shouts, “Have you no shame? To start up such a story! Do you think you will get a1way with this?” (21). Oedipus’ blindness of the situation shows his utter determination to find the truth at all cost. Moreover, after Jocasta reveals that the murderer was said to look like Oedipus, Oedipus says, “I am dreadfully afraid the blind prophet could see. But tell me one more thing that will throw light on this” (43). Oedipus’ continual investigation reveals his determination to find the killer at all cost, even to himself. His commitment to finding the complete truth at any cost reveals his determination. Oedipus was a tragic hero whose hubristic nature, quick temper, and determination lead to his downfall. His pride led to him insulting and treating others poorly, which made them tell the truth about Oedipus’ past. His quick temper made him lash out at others for no reason. Oedipus’ immense determination led to his blind search into the murder of Laius at all cost. These traits led to the downfall of Oedipus and the fulfillment of the roles of a tragic