Character Analysis of Oedipus: Examining Hubris and Downfall

📚 Quick Study Guide

• 👑 Oedipus Rex: A king of Thebes, known for his intelligence and problem-solving skills.
• 🔮 The Prophecy: Oedipus was prophesied to kill his father and marry his mother.
• 🎭 Hubris: Excessive pride or self-confidence, a common tragic flaw in Greek heroes.
• 📉 Downfall: Oedipus's hubris leads him to ignore warnings and ultimately fulfill the prophecy, resulting in his tragic end.
• 🕵️‍♂️ The Investigation: Oedipus relentlessly pursues the truth about Laius's murder, unknowingly uncovering his own guilt.
• 👁️ Recognition & Reversal: The moment Oedipus realizes the truth (recognition) and his fortunes change drastically (reversal).
• 📜 Themes: Fate vs. free will, the dangers of hubris, and the pursuit of truth.

🤔 Practice Quiz

1. Which of the following best defines hubris?
   1. A lack of ambition.
   2. Excessive pride or self-confidence.
   3. Extreme humility.
   4. A love for the gods.
2. What prophecy was Oedipus trying to avoid?
   1. That he would become a great warrior.
   2. That he would die in battle.
   3. That he would kill his father and marry his mother.
   4. That he would lose his kingdom.
3. What is the main city where Oedipus Rex is set?
   1. Athens
   2. Sparta
   3. Thebes
   4. Corinth
4. What triggers Oedipus's downfall?
   1. His lack of intelligence.
   2. His relentless pursuit of the truth.
   3. His trust in the gods.
   4. His kindness to his people.
5. What is the significance of Oedipus blinding himself?
   1. To show his strength.
   2. To escape his fate.
   3. To punish himself for his ignorance and actions.
   4. To gain sympathy from the gods.
6. Which character reveals the truth about Oedipus's parentage?
   1. Jocasta
   2. Creon
   3. Tiresias
   4. The Messenger
7. What is a major theme explored in Oedipus Rex?
   1. The importance of wealth.
   2. Fate versus free will.
   3. The power of love.
   4. The beauty of nature.