His downfall is foreshadowed early on in the story. ... If Oedipus had not been confident of escaping the oracle's revealed destiny, he would not have left Corinth. ... In a way, Oedipus is blinded by his own blind faith in the miracles of fate and destiny. ... He says the following quote after his true destiny is revealed to him: "I'd never come to this, my father's murder -- never been branded mother's husband, all men see me now! ... It's mine alone, my destiny -- I am Oedipus!" ...

• Word Count: 564
• Approx Pages: 2
• Grade Level: High School

Oedipus believes that he is the best that he could ever be when in fact his destiny reveals the opposite. ... Besides creating this tension, the dramatic irony here also foreshadows Oedipus" tragic fate; the audience can feel fear and pity for Oedipus since he is oblivious to his destiny. ... This sets Oedipus on the path to discover his own identity and destiny. ... The pity we feel for Oedipus is maximized in his catharsis due to his grievance for his mother and his pity for his children's destinies. Oedipus" fate was determined before he was born, but he tried to control it by ...

• Word Count: 823
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: High School