Oeudipus Rex

Sophocles Characters Grouping on Oedipus Rex


In the tragedy Oedipus Rex (429-425 B.C.), Sophocles implemented a character grouping system that helped the people from the audience to identify themselves with the different societal classes. Three major hierarchical groups can be selected from the Greek’s society of this period. The Supernatural group constituted by the gods, the Governmental or State group conformed by the Royalty, and the Populi group represented by Thebes’ habitants. The used of a group model was the bridging tool that linked the audience and readers with the play. It worked as a mirror for the spectators, and reflected independent behaviors that characterize Athenians social structure.
“Your own eyes must tell you: Thebes is in her extremity And can not lift her head from the surge of death. A rust consumes the buds and fruits of the earth; Tthe herds are sick ; children die unborn, And labour is vain. The god of plague and pyre raids like detestable ligh...