Index Oedipus' tragic flaw and excessive pride Oedipus' determination to discover the truth Oedipus' fall and the concept of destinyConclusion "Oedipus Rex" by Sophocles is a classic Greek tragedy that tells the story of Oedipus, a nobleman who becomes king of Thebes and unintentionally fulfills a prophecy that will lead to his tragic downfall. In this essay we will explore how the character of Oedipus serves as a tragic hero whose excessive pride and determination to discover the truth ultimately leads to his downfall. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Oedipus' Tragic Flaw and Excessive Pride The concept of a tragic hero, as defined by Aristotle, involves a character of noble stature who possesses a tragic flaw that leads to their downfall. Oedipus fits this description perfectly, as his tragic flaw is excessive pride and arrogance. Throughout the play, Oedipus' arrogance is evident in his interactions with others and in his refusal to believe that he could be responsible for the plague that struck Thebes. For example, Oedipus declares: "I will fight for him as I would fight for my life, to find the murderer of Laius in the country and not worry if the murderer should turn out to be a member of my own family, and with my own eyes I will purge him" (Sophocles, p. 20) This quote demonstrates Oedipus' arrogance in believing that only he has the power to solve the mystery and bring justice to Oedipus' determination to discover the truth is another significant aspect of his character that contributes to his downfall. Despite the warnings of others, Oedipus remains steadfast in his quest to discover the truth about his identity and the murder of King Laius. For example, when Tiresias, the blind prophet , warns Oedipus that he does not want to know the truth, Oedipus dismisses him saying: "I will not be torn from the public streets of Thebes and dragged to be driven into the earth for a capture of filth... and poisoning of the air" (Sophocles, p. 32). This refusal to heed the warnings of others and his incessant questioning and search for answers ultimately lead Oedipus to discover the painful truth about his past. The Fall of Oedipus and the Concept of Destiny The concept of destiny plays a central role in the plot of "Oedipus Rex." Oedipus' actions and decisions contribute to his downfall, as he unknowingly fulfills the prophecy that he would kill his father and marry his mother. Despite his best efforts to avoid this fate, Oedipus' tireless pursuit of the truth and his refusal to accept the warnings of others ultimately lead him to the realization of his tragic fate. Ultimately, Oedipus is blinded when he discovers the truth, a physical representation of the inner turmoil and suffering he experiences as a result of his actions. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom EssayConclusionIn conclusion, Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex" presents the character of Oedipus as a tragic hero whose excessive pride and determination to discover the truth ultimately leads to his downfall. Through his arrogance and refusal to accept the warnings of others, Oedipus seals his tragic fate and fulfills the prophecy that ultimately destroys him. The story of Oedipus serves as a timeless example of the tragic hero archetype and the enduring power of fate in shaping human destiny. Sophocles. "Oedipus Rex." Translated by Ian Johnston, Richer Resources Publications, 2005.