In five pages this paper considers the tragedian's use of symbolism. Three sources are cited in the bibliography.
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of time by outlasting many plays not half its age. THESIS: Why is this? One of the reasons may very well be that the symbolism as well as the universal
truths inherent in the play are timeless. Oedipus Rex, begins within the city limits of Thebes. Thebes is suffering from a
plague that has left the land and the women barren. The King, Oedipus, has sent his brother in law to seek guidance from an oracle. When he returns he
tells the King that the murderer of Laius(the previous King) must be brought to justice. Oedipus swears he will go on this quest to find the killer and cure his
land and his people from this plague. The symbolism inherent with Oedipus is that he is known to be slightly crippled because his heels were pinned when he was cast
onto the hills. This is generally considered to be the mark of a slave, and ironically enough, he is enslaved by the prophesy.
"People of Thebes, my countrymen, look on Oedipus. He solved the famous riddle with his brilliance, he rose to power, a man beyond all power. Who could
behold his greatness without envy? Now what a black sea of terror has overwhelmed him. Now as we keep our watch and wait the final day, count no man happy
till he dies, free of pain at last" (Oedipus, li 1678-1684) Oedipus sends for a blind prophet who seemingly knows
where the killer is. When he is brought to the King, though, he is reluctant to answer the Kings questions. Oedipus threatens the prophet with death unless he will tell