Oedipus Rex - Plot
Uploaded by JarJarBinks on Jul 05, 2004
Plot of Oedipus Rex
Oedipus Rex is a tragedy in classical style plot. The plot starts with the exposition of the dramatic conflict. Then follows with the rising action. The climax then brings a turning point at the high point of action. The falling action then occurs and the tragedy end with the catastrophe.
Oedipus asks the suppliants what their problem is. They explain to Oedipus that the god of plague and pyre is attacking Thebes. They ask for his help because he is the king who saved Thebes from the Sphinx and restored the city. Oedipus says that he has sent Kreon, his wife's brother to find out what he can from Apollo. Kreon brings news that Thebes suffers because late king Laios's murder has not been avenged. Oedipus decides to seek this murderer, not only for the purpose of cleansing but also the fear that murder might also be a threat to his own life. This is the exposition of the dramatic conflict of finding out the mystery of king Laios murder.
The rising action is this search. It starts with Oedipus promising that the person responsible for Laios death will be driven out of Thebes. Oedipus sends for Teiresias, the blind seer who serves Apollo. Teiresias does not want to tell Oedipus about the murder, but tells Oedipus to leave things as they are. Oedipus accuses Teiresias of being the murderer and that is why he won't reveal the truth. Teiresias then tells that Oedipus is the one that killed Laios. Oedipus is shocked and angered by such an accusation. He accuses Teiresias that he is lying. Oedipus then figures that Kreon wants to be made king. He accuses Kreon of bribing Teiresias with favors once he is king. Teiresias rebuts this with that fact that he is Apollo's and accuses Oedipus of being blind to the truth. Teiresias tells Oedipus that he is both father and brother of his children and husband and son to his wife. He tells Oedipus to think on his words. This is the begging of the truth and insight being given to Oedipus.
He chorus questions the second sight when they have seen Oedipus defeat the Sphinx. Kreon hears about Oedipus's accusations and is offended by being called disloyal. Oedipus and Kreon confront each other with their offenses. Kreon defends himself to Oedipus, but Oedipus is not entirely convinced. Oedipus decides to think on it...