Oedipus is responsible for his own downfall Discuss
The loss of his reputation, authority and position, along with his reduced status are aspects of Oedipus’ life that he is, and is not, responsible for. From the beginning of this play, Oedipus took many actions to try and change his destiny though it was these decisions which contributed to his downfall. However, Oedipus was not to be blamed for all that happened, as no matter how much he sought to escape his destiny, there was no way for him to avoid marrying his mother, ‘becoming a parent of a misbegotten brood” and killing his father as it was fated to happen. While Oedipus’ downfall is in the hands of fate, his actions are his own, most of which contribute to fulfilling the prophecy. Oedipus’ nature and knowledge of the prophecy concerning his mother and father cause him to flee Corinth.