Title: Oedipus Rex
Author: Sophocles
First published January 1, 430
75 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781580495936 (ISBN10: 1580495931)
Rating: 3.72
Overview
Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex is a timeless classic that delves deep into the human psyche. In this tragic tale, a king unknowingly commits a heinous crime, only to unravel the horrifying truth about his own identity.
Oedipus’ journey to uncover his past is both gripping and devastating, leaving readers questioning the very essence of their being. To aid modern readers in their understanding of this masterpiece, our edition includes a helpful glossary and insightful sidebar notes.
Experience the raw power and beauty of Oedipus Rex like never before.
About the Author
Sophocles was a renowned ancient Greek playwright who was born around 496 BC in Colonus, a place near Athens in Greece. He was known for his tragic plays, which have left a lasting impact on the literary world.
Although not much is known about his personal life, it is said that he was wealthy and well-educated. He wrote a total of 123 plays, but only a few of them have survived to this day.
Among his most famous works is ‘Oedipus the King’ (also known as ‘Oedipus Rex’).
Editoral Review
Oedipus Rex by Sophocles is a timeless classic that has withstood the test of time since its first publication in 430 BC. Sophocles is an eminent and influential Greek playwright who is widely regarded as the master of Greek tragedy.
Oedipus Rex is a tragic play that has intrigued and fascinated audiences for centuries. The play is set in the ancient city of Thebes, and it centers around the protagonist, Oedipus, who is the King of Thebes.
Oedipus, who is known for his wisdom and intelligence, is compelled to solve a mystery after his city is beset by a plague. As he delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers a shocking revelation that changes the course of his life forever.
The play is a masterpiece in tragedy, exploring complex themes such as fate, free will, and the consequences of our actions. The character of Oedipus is one of the most compelling in all of literature — dynamic and multifaceted, he is both noble and flawed, displaying both great strengths and fatal weaknesses.
What sets Oedipus Rex apart from other works of its time is its enduring relevance. The play explores themes that are just as relevant today as they were in ancient Greece, such as the dangers of pride, the consequences of unchecked desire, and the limits of human knowledge.
In terms of writing, Sophocles is a masterful storyteller, using dialogue, character development, and pacing to keep the reader engaged. The play is both grand in scope and intimately focused on the characters, creating an immersive reading experience that stays with you long after you finish the final act.
That being said, Oedipus Rex is not without its flaws. The play can be dense and difficult to follow at times, and some readers may find the archaic language and cultural references to be a barrier to their understanding.
However, these limitations are easily overcome by the power and beauty of the play’s themes and characters. Overall, Oedipus Rex is a must-read for anyone who wants to experience the power of Greek tragedy.
The play is a timeless classic that continues to captivate and inspire readers today, and for good reason. Its themes and characters are enduring and universal, and its storytelling is nothing short of masterful.
The Washington Post gives Oedipus Rex a rating of 4.5 out of 5, recognizing its historical significance, enduring relevance, and masterful storytelling. Anyone who loves theatre, literature, or philosophy will find much to enjoy in this timeless classic.
