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Morality in “Oedipus” and “Death and the King’s Horseman”
All societies, spanning from the earliest stages of civilization to today, seem to contain very similar elements in terms of human morality. ... In both Sophocles’ Oedipus and Soyinka’s Death and the King’s Horseman, an authority figure finds the community’s well being threatened and must take it upon himself to ensure the restoration of nature’s order. ... In Oedipus, it is King Oedipus himself and his flaws to blame for the disturbance of the natural order of life in Thebes. Right off the bat the character Oedipus is deemed a superhero, as he saves the city of Thebes by solving the Sphinx’s riddle and is crowned king. One can imagine how this godlike praise instills an enormous sense of pride in Oedipus, and this pride is indeed the ultimate characteristic trait that leads to his demise. ... Initially Oedipus’ pride is displayed as somewhat beneficial, for he is entirely devoted to his people throughout the play. ... Exhibiting this love of his community, Oedipus says, “I grieve for these, my people, far more than I fear for my own life. ... When Oedipus learns from the Oracle that he is to kill his father and marry his mother, his heightened pride and determination leads him to believe he can escape this dreadful prophecy. ... In reference to the Oracle Oedipus proudly states, “Creon, the soul of trust. ... Oedipus curses the murderer, declaring, “May he drag out an evil death-in-life in misery. ...
In attempting to escape this prophecy and control one’s fate, Oedipus destroys the balance and natural order of things. ... Oedipus realizes that his actions have caused the community great distress, and it is his moral obligation to amend his crimes, replenish himself, and restore order once again.
Approximate Word count = 1497
Approximate Pages = 6
(250 words per page double spaced)
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