Oedipus the King

Spanning a period of thirty years, Sophocles produced three plays all with similar thematic qualities. One such production features "a noble man who seeks knowledge that in the end destroys him" (70). Although, the Athenian audience was familiar with the original narrative of Oedipus Rex, spectators still found joy in watching the play unfold before them. In the play, Sophocles demonstrates to the audience through the main character that blindness is not necessarily limited to physical blindness, but can equally afflict intellectually capabilities. Such as, he contrasts Teiresias literal loss of sight with Oedipus' metaphorical vision. Sophocles uses physical and symbolic blindness as a reoccurring concept in order to emphasize Oedipus' evolution as a character.

Renowned for his ability to solve the Riddle of the Sphinx, Oedipus exudes confidence as the play commences. Famous for his clear sightedness and quick comprehension, he ironically remains devoid of self-knowledge. Oedipus' swiftness and impulsive reactions contribute to his figurative and ultimately his literal blindness. This spontaneous nature prevents Oedipus from noticing the chaos surrounding his life.

As the plague strikes fear in Thebes, the King is confident that he will "bring what is dark to light." Hence a clear allusion of what is to come. An audience listens as the king proposes the murderer is "driven from every house" (75; line 24).

Sophocles incorporation of a blind clairvoyant stresses the dramatic irony of the situation. Teiresias' literal blindness contrasts with the metaphorical blindness of those who refuse to accept the truth of one's own self. Although trusted, Oedipus underestimates the prophet and accuses him of being a "sightless, witless, senseless, mad old man" (76; line 53). Nonetheless, the king seeks insight to the murder of Laios. In an attempt to evade inquiries, the seer warns Oedipus that he "cannot see the evil" (76; line 149). Unwilling to accept the vague response Oedipus continues to badger asking, "why are your eyes so cold" (76; line 103)? The inquiry prompts Teiresias to counter saying, "Listen to me, you mock my blindness, do you? But I say that you, with both your eyes are blind: You can not see the wretchedness of your life" (78; line 195). Although Oedipus is unaware of the irony that lies within the statement, onlookers recognize the brutal honesty and relish in the foreshadowing.