Sophocles uses the image of a crossroad as a primal symbol to show that man is free to choose and is ultimately held responsible for their own actions. ... Whoever he is, a lone man unknown in his crime or one among many, let that man drag out his life in agony, step by painful step- I curse myself as well " (Line 280-284). ... Upon hearing this from Tiresias, Oedipus inadvertently lets his emotions control him by suddenly accusing Tiresias of the crime. ... His extreme self punishment is a reflection of potentially understanding his ultimate flaw of placing himself above the Gods in an att...

• Word Count: 670
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: High School

We see this when he came to the crossroad and his engagement with Laius. ... It was then fairly presumptuous of him to think he can bring justice to a crime he is completely ignorant to. ... The punishment Oedipus then handed down to himself when he discovers it was he who committed the acts was one of arrogant thought. ...

• Word Count: 1145
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: High School