Analysis Of Oedipus The King ¸ Jocasta - 1078 Words

Suicide is a desperate act that puts forward a clear yet sombre statement to their audience. Keeping this is mind, the question arises, why do people commit suicide? In Sophocles’ play, Oedipus The King ¸ Jocasta who is both wife and mother to Oedipus is an excellent example of why one might commit suicide due to two major themes. The first theme is pride and manifests itself in Jocasta’s prideful character. The second theme is prophecy and its relation to suicide is found it Jocasta’s actions after she realizes the truth. Jocasta’s arrogant character and the discovery of the prophecy’s fulfilment are what drive Jocasta to suicide. Jocasta’s egotistical nature is evident throughout the play and this aspect, along with other features of the play, are what contribute to her unruly demise. She is portrayed as an arrogant individual through her actions and lines spoken in the play. After the messenger arrives with news of Polybus’ death, Oedipus is relieved that his adopted father had died thus, unable to fulfill the prophecy. Jocasta responds with a boastful remark stating, â€Å"There. Didn’t I tell you from the start† (Sophocles 1064-1065). This contemptuous statement directed towards Oedipus showcases Jocasta’s personality, and is a major factor that contributes to her death. In addition to being insolent, Jocasta portrays traits of skepticism, because she questions the prophecy that Tiresias had foretold, â€Å"A prophet? Well then, free yourself of every charge! Listen to me andShow MoreRelatedSexism In Oedipus The King1395 Words   |  6 Pagestragedy, Oedipus the King, i s not sexist. The prominent play portrays both men and women justly. The events presented by Sophocles exemplifies a level of admiration and respect for women that was not ordinary in ancient Greece. 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After Oedipus birth into the world, his father King Laius of Thebes heard from a prophet that his own child was destined to kill him. Sophocles play begins from past to present and starts to unravel the journeys Oedipus goes through. Oedipus isn t an evil character as one would think while reading the story. He never