Big Question:
How does society influence an individuals perception of himself? How does it influence an individuals perception of others?
Or
How does an individual's surroundings and circumstances alter his perceptions?
Exemplifying the title of a tragic hero, Oedipus lived a life fortified with good deeds, yet it was tainted by a single mistake. The play documents Oepidpus' journey to "realization," as he slowly learns that his prophesized fate came true. At the climax of the play, when Oedipus found out what he had done, his self perception was altered completely. Prior to this, he was seen as an intelligent, brave, and kind king and he thought of himself similarly. However, after his epiphany, Oedipus believed he was a horrid person, regardless of the incedental nature of his actions.
After the climax of the play, the words and perceptions of Oedipus coincide on a personal level--remember how he referenced himself as the "sickest" among the sick of Thebes--words delivered by Oedipus the ruler, ironically leveled on a personal level at play's end.
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