His analysis of the ideal form of tragic plays became a guideline for later playwrights in Western civilization. ... Baffled by the reluctance of the people to heal, Oedipus, who became the king after he solved the riddle of the Sphinx, sends his brother-in-law, Creon, at first a good natured, and rational being, to find the cure for the city's current disaster. Creon informs Oedipus that in order to save Thebes, he must solve the murder of the previous king, Lauis, who was killed at crossroads years ago. ... This shows that Oedipus is growing impatient. Destined to find more information...

• Word Count: 1098
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

The responsibility for downfall is clear through analysis of a hero's free-willed actions, state of ignorance, and tragic nature. ... Similarly, in Oedipus the King, Oedipus is given the chance to learn the truth about his real parents when the blind prophet Tiresias accuses him of being "all unknowing,"" and shouts "you are the scourge of your own flesh and blood"" (Sophocles, 183). Rather than using this knowledge to save himself, Oedipus chooses to remain ignorant and turns the prophet away in rage, bringing upon a downfall that is his fault alone. ... Oedipus, a true tragic hero, re...

• Word Count: 660
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: Undergraduate