Sources of Pleasure and Disquietude in Oedipus Rex

Sophocles, who was born in Colonus Hippius (now part of Athens), is thought by many modern scholars to be the greatest of the Greek tragedians. Around 430 BC, Sophocles wrote Oedipus Tyrannus, also known as Oedipus Rex. Oedipus Rex set the standard for Greek tragedy, and is regarded today as a work of genius. The philosopher Aristotle even went as far to consider it the most perfect of all the Greek tragedies. There are several reasons …

…reader that evokes a great sense of awareness. In addition, Sophocles uses themes that are universal to humanity regardless of time. The classic Sohpoclean theme of an individual attempting to defy divine will and make his own fate is one that many individuals will grasp. This theme, and the senses evoked by the contrasting emotions of pleasure and disquietude, provide for a classic tragedy that has and will continue to live on for the ages.