Oedipus Rex

Cultural identity is the feeling of belonging and is based primarily on a set of common social values and beliefs. Ancient Greeks used tragic theatre to promote a common cultural identity amongst its people and numerous colonies and allies, and in so doing, achieved a peaceful and conformist society. One of the principal playwrights of this era was Sophocles (497/6 BC – winter 406/5 BC) who, during his adult life, was able to develop and express the free social life and culture of this period through the medium of theatre. It is Sophocles’ upbringing that greatly influenced the plot of many of his plays and the manner in which they are portrayed – they represent an extension of his youth and a continuation of his respect for the gods. One of the best examples of his works is the tragedy, Oedipus Rex, which first premiered in 429 BC. During the play, Sophocles takes us on the journey of king Oedipus who has reigned over Thebes for fifteen years in relative prosperity. However, when plague falls upon the city, the quest to rid them of the plague uncovers Oedipus’ shameful past. During the performance, we are presented with various defining features of ancient Greek society which are enacted through the use of dramatic and tragic conventions. Many aspects of ancient Greek cultural identity are either promoted or challenged throughout the play – features such as manliness, respect for the gods, piety, democracy, and a belief in predetermined life by fate, were the defining features. Through Sophocles’ clever use of tragic and dramatic conventions, he is able to both promote and challenge the defining features of ancient Athenian society and maintain a conformist audience so that they may exist happy within their milieu.
One of the overarching cultural identities which is conveyed by Sophocles to the audience is that of respect for the gods which is mainly portrayed through the tragic convention of hubris. Pride, according to Aristotle’s Poetics, appears to be a...