Oedipus Commentary Corruption of Power

Oedipus Commentary: Corruption of Power Power, in the right hands can be a very rewarding thing. But when given to the wrong person, that power can blind one’s judgment. In Oedipus pages 15 to 16, Sophocles portrays this exploitation of power and authority through the use of characterization, diction associated with death, and dramatic irony. Through the use of characterization, Sophocles is able to mold Oedipus’ character into Aristotle’s definition of a tragic hero. Oedipus is a very admirable character as he is a compassionate man (lines 11-12), and one who wants justice (lines 21-22). Although Oedipus has good intentions, in doing so, he corrupts his power to frighten his people, by putting himself above everyone else, so they “respect” him. Through this respect, he can gain knowledge and truth from the people who are essentially the witnesses, to uncover justice. This is shown through lines 6-18. Oedipus calls down a curse, and threatens the people who do not oblige to his measures. This was an impulsive act, as even those who don’t agree with Oedipus will be sentenced with death. Imagine what kind of curse he will call down on those who not only disagree with his actions, but act against them. Ironically, this curse he called down was to be destroyed by the present plague, which is what Oedipus is ultimately trying to rid the land of.
Through the use of diction associated with death, pollution, sickness, and unnaturalness, Sophocles is able to amplify the state of Thebes and their state of desperation. There is a widespread sickness in Thebes, which brings an unnatural disturbance to their land. In order to rid the land of this plague, Oedipus has to find the murder of Laius, and in this search for the murderer, Oedipus’ curiosity takes over and he is soon threatening to torture his people for information. This diction associated with death corresponds to the behavior of Oedipus, and can foreshadow his eventual death as well. Through this,