Oedipus Rex and Freud's Theory of Personality

King Oedipus makes retribution.

In Oedipus Rex, Sophocles explores the dual nature we all share--the known and the unknown, or in Freudian terms, the conscious and the unconscious. Consequently, the true tragedy of Oedipus is the discovery of his guilt--not the act of murder itself.

As Oedipus begins to realize the truth, he replies, "Ah, what net has God been weaving for me?" (1334), then, in a seemingly contradictory statement, "I think I may be accurst by my own ignorant edict" (1334).

Is the play premised on the notion that Oedipus is bound or free--the puppet of fate or the creator of his own fate? Or some of each? And what about us? According to Freud, is our personality as adults predetermined (fated, if you will) by our childhood experiences, or do we have the free will to change?

Develop a string of responses-each student should contribute twice-never consecutively. Your first response should be 100 words max. Your second response can be between 50-100 words. Whenever possible, expand or refute a classmate's response.

You are strongly encouraged to consult the texts or outside sources to provide depth and breadth to the discussion.

All responses should be posted by Monday after the break.