K. J. Somaiya

The myth of Oedipus is vividly used by the poets, dramatists, historians and philosophers to debate on the thesis of determinism and determination. Determinism is a theme often occurring in Greek plays in general and tragedies in particular. Oedipus Rex by Sophocles offers a prominent example of fortune and human freedom. Oedipus is observed to be a puppet in the hands of destiny and ‘a son of chance’ as far as the fatality before the action on the stage is considered but during the action, he appears to be a determined individual. The same individuality and his voluntary deeds lead him towards his devastation and tragic downfall.