Oedipus Rex as Aristotalian Tragedy - 1506 Words

One may argue that the Greek playwright, Sophocles modeled his play Oedipus Rex on Aristotles definition and analysis of tragedy.Since according to Aristotles definition, A tragedy is an imitation of action that is serious, complete and of a certain magnitude; in language embellished artistic ornaments, the several kinds being found in separate parts of the play; in the form of action, not narrative with incidents that evokes pity and fear of a persons emotions. Also Aristotle identified the basic six parts a tragedy as being plot, character, thought, melody, diction and spectacle which he considered the least important. Therefore the controversy of Sophocles modeling his play Oedipus Rex on Aristotles analysis of tragedy can†¦show more content†¦In that case the tragic flaw in Oedipus would become that of arrogance or hubris. His career changes from prosperity to that of terrible adversity, and he makes the terrible discovery that human knowledge is extremely limited and misleading. Know your limitations, especially in relation to gods, and stay within them. Also, Aristotles description of thought can be found in Sophocles Tragedy, Oedipus Rex. From Aristotles definition, the element of thought is the power of saying what ever can be said for the occasion or what is appropriate for the occasion . Thought is also shown in the things one says when proving a point. For example when King Oedipus in the play accuses Creon of conspiring with Tiresias to take his crown when he lashes out to Creon that Thou knowst , if this Tiresias Had not combined with thee, he would not thus accuse me as the murderer of Liaus The other three elements of tragedy as defined by Aristotle that is Melody, Diction and Spectacle can all be traced in the play. With regards to Melody Sophocles makes the chorus know the story line of the play hence making it very easy for the audience to understand the play. Diction that is the style of Oedipus and spectacle which includes the visual effects and stage appearance makes the audience appreciate the play wholeheartedly. Lastly, according to Aristotle tragedy arouses pity and fear and through these brings about a catharsis or purgation. Although there is