"This is well said, and a prudent man would ponder it. Judgements too quickly formed are dangerous." pg.860 - Choragos
This quote refers to Creon's speech where anarachy is discussed. Creon think Oedipusdoes does wrong when he "takes good men for bad, bad men for good." "A true friend thrown aside - why life itself is not more precious." Choragos thinks judgements that come too quickly are dangerous becasue you need to give things time. By judging something or someone without getting the whole picture can make you get the wrong ideas. I believe such messages as this one are important to not only the "trial for murder" inside the book, but for life as a whole.
My own flesh and blood—dear sister, dear Ismene, how many griefs our father Oedipus handed down! Do you know one, I ask you, one grief that Zeus will not perfect for the two of us while we still live and breathe? There’s nothing, no pain—our lives are pain—no private shame, no public disgrace, nothing I haven’t seen in your grief and mine. (Antigone, 1–8) This quote is important because it shows the plays concern with family relationships. Then Antigone reveals that Creon will not allow her brother Polynices to be buried. This quote shows Antigone's character and personality and shows that she knows whats going on and isn't afraid to speack up and share it.
“Why should a man whose life seems ruled by chance live in fear—a man who never looks ahead, who has no certain vision of his future? It’s best to live haphazardly, as best one can. Do not worry you will wed your mother. It’s true that in their dreams a lot of men have slept with their own mothers, but someone who ignores all this bears life more easily.” (Iocaste, Lines 1161-1168)
After Oedipus hears the news that his father, Polybos, has died, he begins to question the validity of the oracle because he obviously did not kill his father. Iocaste explains that this reaffirms her beliefs that the oracles are worth nothing. In this quote, she advises Oedipus to not worry about the oracle because it is useless to worry about something that you cannot control. Iocaste’s belief connects with the overall idea that everyone’s life is controlled by fate and there is no way, apart from death, to avoid your destiny.
"Speak before all; the burden that I bear Is more for these my subjects than myself."-Oedipus
This what Oedipus says to Creon right after Creon gets back from seeing the oracle. Oedipus is waiting to hear what he has to go to keep everyone from getting sick. And Creon wants to tell him in private but Oedipus wants him to "Speak before all", becuase he beleives that the "burden" that Creon is going to tell him is going to affect everyone, not just himself.
"To strike me too with his assassin hand. Therefore in righting him I serve myself. Up, children, haste ye, quit these altar stairs, Take hence your suppliant wands, go summon hither The Theban commons. With the god's good help Success is sure; 'tis ruin if we fail." (Oedipus in opening scene)
This is Oedipus' emoitions after being revealed to the news of his father's murder. He wants o take direct action and find the one responsible. The 'alter stairs' he refers too, lead me to believe that he is talking about the stairs to heaven, and if the 'children' (the people searching for the murderer), don't act fact they will never find them. He also refers to success with God, infering that He will lead them to solve the crime. There are a lot of references to Christianity and God throughout the story, and this is just a small portion of them.
"If that thou thinkest self-willed pride avails, apart from judgment, know thou art not wise." Creon lines 575-576
This quote is said by Creon to Oedipus after Oedipus has accused Creon of sending a messenger to tell him that he is the man he is looking for. Creon's quote says that it is not smart to believe that self-made pride is satisfied without judgement. In other words, your own judgements will determine how much self pride you have. I think this is important in the book because Oedipus doesn't believe that he could be the one who they are trying to find because he thinks too highly of himself and has too much pride. This, in the end, leads to his defeat.
"From our land the fiery plague, be near us now and defend us! Chorus. Strophe 1
This quote is important to the rest of the text that we have read so far because the chorus is asking Oedipus to save the town as he did before. When he saved the town the first time from the sphinx he became king. Now a plague is upon the city and the people are asking for Oedipus' help to save the city once again. This quote will also play out in the rest of the story when we learn whether or not he was able to help the town again.
"Pride breeds the tyrant violent pride, gorging, crammed to bursting with all that is overripe and rich with ruin.... Can such a man, so desperate, still boast he can save his life from the flashing bolts of god?"
This quote is stated by the Chorus who is obviously referring to Oedipus in very unflattering terms. This is because Oedipus believes he has the power to make his own choices and that the prophecy about him is not true. Yet the Chorus is telling him that it is in fact true and that his fate has already been determined. This is prevalent because throughout the entire story both predetermined fate and the power of human choice seem to be in question.
"Then I will start afresh, and once again shed light on darkness. It is most fitting that Apollo demonstrates his care for the dead man, and worthy of you, too. And so, as is right, you will see how I work with you, seeking vengeance for this land, as well as for the god" (159-165)
This quote is important to the rest of the text because this is when Oedipus declares that he will once again save the land from the plague.
"If, with my knowledge, house or hearth of mine receive the guilty man, upon my head lie all the curses I have laid on others" Oedipus (line 249-251)
This quote refers to Oedipus' resolution to find the person who committed the murder. Oedipus states in this quote that the act of finding the murderer is so important that he is willing to take the punishment if he has hidden any knowledge of the person. He is showing that because of the significance of the situation everyone should step up and share information they know, putting the community first. Oedipus warns that if someone conceals knowledge then they would be banished from the Kingdom and also would be excluded from all kinds of religious festivities such as prayers, holy water, and sacrifices.
"O woe is thee, poor wretch! With that last word I leave thee,henceforth silent evermore" (Iocasta).
This quote refers to Iocasta's response to Oedipus' desire to find who his real father was. I think that at this time Iocasta already knew who Oedipus' real father was, her dead husband. She was overcome by grief because she did not want the truth to be told to him. This is because she did not her marriage to be ruined. Furthermore, I think she she was unhappy because she was already knew she was going to end her life.
"People of Thebes, look on Oedipus. He solved the famous riddle with his brilliance, he rose to power, a man beyond all power. Who could behold his greatness without envy? Now what a black sea of terror has overwhelmed him. Now as we keep our watch and wait the final day, count no man happy till he dies, free of pain at last."(Chorus, final lines) In this quote, the Chorus is speaking about Oedipus after he found out that he had killed his father and married his mother then blinded himself. It refers to his rise to power and his final fall from power because he became too proud and almighty and was eventually overwhelmed. This quote explains that we all have a fate and we can't escape in except for in death. And in death can one look back on their life and be happy.
There are many references to light and dark, which I think is a reference to the search for truth that encomapsses the entire play. Oedipus says, "I will start afresh and once again Make dark things clear," in reference to finding the out the truth. The dark is the unknown and to gain truth will be to become enlightened. Creon brought the report,"In this land, said the god; 'who seeks shall find; Who sits with folded hands or sleeps is blind.'" The god is saying that those how do not know the truth are in the dark, figuratively blind. This is ironic because Oedipus is the one that seeks the truth, yet he is the one that is in the dark and once he does learn it, he becomes literally blind.
Jocasta stated that, "Why should a man whose life seems ruled by chance live in fear-a man who never looks ahead, who has no certain vision of his future? It's best to live haphazardly, as best one can" to Oedipus as he searches to find the truth of whom killed Loias (lines 1161-1164).
This quote has much significant to the text as much as others quotes, because it talks about a man's own fate, and how a man should live life as best as he can since he can not change what is ruled by fate! You can't avoid and or run away from your fate and or destiny that are destined in you. Oedipus ran away from home to avoid the truth of the prophecy of him will be killing his father and then marrying his mother. Although he ran away from them, who are not his real parents, at the end he did killed his father and then married his mother. However, to avoid and or end the fate, one must die like Jocasta did. ``Mea Pen``
"Well, I will start afresh and once again Make dark things clear. Right worthy the concern Of Phoebus, worthy thine too, for the dead; I also, as is meet, will lend my aid To avenge this wrong to Thebes and to the god." Oedipus
I chose this quote because it shows Oedipus's desperate power struggle that is caused by the fact that he is the new ruler and feels the need to win over everyone. I feel like much of this behavior has to do with his personality. This ego trip shows up later in a conversation with the spirit type thing that shows up.
Quote: "OEDIPUS: Mock my excellence, but you will find out I am truly great."
I think this is very important to the story because usually in ancient hero stories such as this the tragic flaw in the main character is his arrogance and I think this is a perfect example to show that. He already thinks he is great because he defeated the sphinx but there are other things that will come his way for sure that he is not ready for. This is possibly foreshadowing of his death.
"Fear? What should a mean fear? it's all chance, chance rules our lives. Not a man on earth can see a day ahead, groping through the dark. Better to live at random, best we can...Take such things for shadows, nothing at all -- Live, Oedipus, as if there's no tomorrow!" I think this is a pretty significant quote because it's said by Jocasta who seems to be acting pretty arrogant, but at the same time she's pretty much telling Oedipus to do the same thing and live as if there's no tomorrow. But it's a little ironic to me at the same time, becaus she's telling Oedipus to live on the edge, but why would he even listen to this because he'd already sent Creon to the oracle?
"In thy report of what the herdsman said Laius was slain by robbers; now if he Still speaks of robbers, not a robber, I Slew him not; "one" with "many" cannot square. But if he says one lonely wayfarer, The last link wanting to my guilt is forged."
This quote refers to when Oedipus is trying to figure out if it was him who killed his father. This is through asking Jocasta details about the death, about how many people took part in the murder. This is an important part to the rest of the play in the sense that if it was just on man that took part in the death of King then it was him and the oracle was right. His wife would end up being his mom which it turns out it is.
Fear? What should a man fear? It’s all chance, chance rules our lives. Not a man on earth can see a day ahead, groping through the dark. Better to live at random, best we can. And as for this marriage with your mother—have no fear. Many a man before you, in his dreams, has shared his mother’s bed. Take such things for shadows, nothing at all— Live, Oedipus, as if there’s no tomorrow! (Oedipus the King, 1068–1078)
At this point in the play the audience knows of Oedipus's story and that Jocasta is Oedipus's mother. So the irony in what Jocasta is saying almost causes the audience to cringe. THe audience is like the soothsayer where we have lots of knowledge but it only brings pain.
"Well, let him go, no matter what it cost me, Or certain death or shameful banishment,For your sake I relent, not his; and him, Where'er he be, my heart shall still abhor." (Oedipus)
Here Oedipus declares that he will banish or kill the man who is guilty. The thing he doesn't know is that he might be the culpret with out knowing it. If he finds out that the killers where one person, he will be the first candidate. All the evidence will lead to him. So he made a regretable mistake when he make such a strict penalty.
Is that so? Then I would ask you to stand by the very words which you yourself proclaimed and from now on not speak to me or these men. For the accursed polluter of this land is you. (Teiresias lines 418-421)
Teiresias is telling Oedipus that he is the person that killed Laios, and he is the one bringing problems to Thebes. Oedipus of course does not realize this and that is the reason that he presses Teiresias further for the truth. When Teiresias tells Oedipus directly wht he did, Oedipus still does not believe that he is the one that killed the King. Oedipus is blinded by the power of his position and does not want to listen to those inferior to him.
"People of Thebes, look on Oedipus. He solved the famous riddle with his brilliance, he rose to power, a man beyond all power. Who could behold his greatness without envy? Now what a black sea of terror has overwhelmed him. Now as we keep our watch and wait the final day, count no man happy till he dies, free of pain at last."
This is at the very end that the chorus says this. It is important to the book because it reemphasizes the point that we can't escape our fate and that no matter how we try to stay away from our fate, it has a strange way of coming back to us.
"Time, who sees all things, he hath found thee out, 1264 Against thy will, and long ago condemned The wedlock none may wed, Begetter and begotten." -Antistrophe
The chorus members appear to be the voice of summary in the play. This quote refers to one of the greatest themes in the book; the power of fate. The antistrophe refers to time as the thing that sees all things. In due time, Oedipus comes to know of his own fate that he is bound to. Even in wedlock, he isn't married because ihe is married to his mother. This quote epitomizes the tragedy that Oedipus bears throughout the piece.
"Let me report then all the god declared. King Phoebus bids us straitly extirpate a fell pollution that infests the land, and no more harbor an inveterate sore."
This is a quote by Creon when he returns from the oracle and faces Oedipus. He asks Oedipus if he wants him to share in front of everyone and since "the burden that I bear is more for these my subjects than myself" he continues out loud. It is interesting that he uses the word pollution to describe the problem that I think will continue through out the story. The death will also pollute everyone in the community and establish a permanent sore.
"Why should anyone in this world be afraid, since Fate rules us and nothing can be for seen." (870)
This is really important because this is saying that they believe that you have no choice in how your life will turn out. That it is predetermined. This is rather hard to believe for some, and for others it's how they think of everything. But this quote is saying that nobody should worry about what is to happen in life because it's going to happen no matter what. It is important because it gives the reader insight on the character's character.
Well, I will start afresh and once again Make dark things clear. Right worthy the concern Of Phoebus, worthy thine too, for the dead; I also, as is meet, will lend my aid To avenge this wrong to Thebes and to the god. Not for some far-off kinsman, but myself, Shall I expel this poison in the blood; For whoso slew that king might have a mind To strike me too with his assassin hand. Therefore in righting him I serve myself. Up, children, haste ye, quit these altar stairs,Take hence your suppliant wands, go summon hither The Theban commons. With the god's good help Success is sure; 'tis ruin if we fail.
This is important because it shows that the king wants to find the murderer. He is telling the people that it can and will be done. He says that he cannot fail and he plans on finding the assassin.
"Hear then: this man whom thou hast sought to arrest With threats and warrants this long while, the wretch Who murdered Laius—that man is here. He passes for an alien in the land But soon shall prove a Theban, native born. And yet his fortune brings him little joy; For blind of seeing, clad in beggar's weeds, For purple robes, and leaning on his staff, To a strange land he soon shall grope his way."
This part is when the oracle comes and tells Oedipus who the killer actually was but doesn't actually name them. He says (while talking to Oediups) that the man who Oedipus has been looking for that murdered Laius is living amongst them and was born a Theban and grew up there, but the fact that he killed Laius doesn't make him happy because he can't see what he has done. When the oracle mentions purple robes I think it is implied that he is talking about someone higher-up in the social classes because the higher social classes wore purple back then. This is important because oracles typically do a lot of foreshadowing in these stories.
"He fell; and now the god's command is plain: Punish his takers-off, whoe'er they be."
Creon explains to Oedipus the fate of Laios. Oedipus was curious to where Laios was when he was murdered, traveling or in his own palace. Oedipus makes it clear that the murderer should be punished severly. The death of Laios is a key issue in the book, at least at the begining. As king, Oedipus takes charge and warns everyone who knows anything about the death to speak up.
Fear? What should a man fear? It’s all chance, chance rules our lives. Not a man on earth can see a day ahead, groping through the dark. Better to live at random, best we can. And as for this marriage with your mother—have no fear. 1068-Jocasta
I think that the quote above is important because it addresses one of the main themes of this play, which is fate and if one can aviod it or not. In this quotation, Jocasta is announcing that Oedipus must accept that his life is full of chance and randomness and that fate is not involved. I believe that Oedipus is bound to his fate, becuase he has discovered what it is. If Oedipus had not known his fate, then he would not be bound to it, and his life would truely be run by chance and randomness.
Banishment, or the shedding blood for blood. This stain of blood makes shipwreck of our state. -( Creon)
This quote is significant because it's the explanation of what must be done in order to save the city. The main point is that either the new king must be banished or killed in order to help the city to survive. It's the turning point of the story and probably one of the most important parts of the whole story.
"Jocasta: Ah mayst thou ne'er dicover who thou art!"
This is just one of the few string of pleas that Jocasta told to Oedipus to hope that he not learn who he really is. I found this one interesting because this means that Jocasta already knew that she was having children with not only her own son, but also her husbands killer. I believe she must have already been teetering on suicide before this event occured, but she didn't act it, the grief should have been overwhelming...unless she was one rather twisted person...
"Who murdered Laius—that man is here. He passes for an alien in the land But soon shall prove a Theban, native born."
This quote from Teiresias speaking to Oedipus is important because it establishes the beginning of the prophecy. Teiresias says that Oedipus, who was established to be the murderer previously, is more than he appears to be. He begins to talk about how in the future people will realize that Oedipus is a Theban and not a foreigner. This shows Teiresias' insight into Oedipus' future.
He fell; and now the god's command is plain: Punish his takers-off, whoe'er they be. (Creon)
This quote is important to the text because it is the point in the story where Creon reveals to Oedipus that his polybos has been killed. It is also a crucial quote to the text because it may be foreshadowing what is to be the fate those who committed the murder
In this land, said the god; "who seeks shall find; Who sits with folded hands or sleeps is blind." -Creon
This quote shows the amount of morals the greeks had compared to the modern world. This is the beggining of the man hunt for the person who killed the previous king. This quote means that one who is apathetic sees nothing and knows nothing. In order for the killer to be found, everyone has to work hard and see clearly.
"O gods, descend! Like three streams leap against the fires of our grief, the fires of darkness; be swift to bring us rest!" (Antistrophe 1, 14-17)
One major theme of this novel is that humans will always want more power and control. They have created all sorts of technology to make it easier for them to gain control of anything weaker than them, but they usurp their power and will become tyrants. Humans are selfish and forget about justice, the gods, love and caring for others as well as nature and strive only to get what they want, which is more control. In this quote, fires are mentioned and this is a technology humans discovered and use it to gain more power. 'the fires of our grief' refers to the fact that their technology and power-hungry ways has burned all the common good out of them and now they will lose the love of their gods and go to hell or 'darkness' and they grieve this. 'O gods, descend... Be swift to bring us rest' this means that with the humans destroying themselves, they are turning to the gods to save them but the only way to save the damage that's been done is to obliterate it. 'bring us to rest' could mean to kill the humans to put out their fire with the 'three streams' or the gods (Zeus, Poseidon, and Hades). Molly Riegel
"Peddlers are ye all And I the merchandise ye buy and sell. Go to, and make your profit where ye will, Silver of Sardis change for gold of Ind; Ye will not purchase this man's burial, Not though the winged ministers of Zeus Should bear him in their talons to his throne; Not e'en in awe of prodigy so dire" -Creon
This quote is Creon saying that he will not be bought and sold like mechandise by Teiresias. He will defend himself and Oedipus.
"The greatest griefs are those we cause ourselves."
-SOPHOCLES, Oedipus Rex
This quote said by Oedipus is important to the play because it shows that he has taken responsibility for his acions. He feels as though he must be punished for the acts he has committed and is willing to take account for them.
"To twit me with my blindness--thou hast eyes, Yet see'st not in what misery thou art fallen, Nor where thou dwellest nor with whom for mate. Dost know thy lineage? Nay, thou know'st it not, And all unwitting art a double foe To thine own kin, the living and the dead; Aye and the dogging curse of mother and sire One day shall drive thee, like a two-edged sword, Beyond our borders, and the eyes that now See clear shall henceforward endless night."-TEIRESIAS
This quote is important because it speaks about Oedipus being blind to what is going on around him. Though Oedipus can see perfectly well, he chooses not to see certain things, or is so set in certain beliefs that it is impossbile for him to see the truth. It seems that this is a common theme in the book, when Teiresias tells Oedipus that it is he himself that has committed the crime, but Oedipus just keeps asking Teiresias to say the same thing over and over, though the answer is not going to change. It seems that Oedipus is not aware of what is going on around him, and is more focused on only the good going on in his land.
"To twit me with my blindness--thou hast eyes, Yet see'st not in what misery thou art fallen, Nor where thou dwellest nor with whom for mate. Dost know thy lineage? Nay, thou know'st it not, And all unwitting art a double foe To thine own kin, the living and the dead; Aye and the dogging curse of mother and sire One day shall drive thee, like a two-edged sword, Beyond our borders, and the eyes that now See clear shall henceforward endless night."-TEIRESIAS
This quote is important because it speaks about Oedipus being blind to what is going on around him. Though Oedipus can see perfectly well, he chooses not to see certain things, or is so set in certain beliefs that it is impossbile for him to see the truth. It seems that this is a common theme in the book, when Teiresias tells Oedipus that it is he himself that has committed the crime, but Oedipus just keeps asking Teiresias to say the same thing over and over, though the answer is not going to change. It seems that Oedipus is not aware of what is going on around him, and is more focused on only the good going on in his land.
This is one of the many quotes in the book that show someone's view of fate. There are many places where someone says that they believe one's fate is either predestined or not. I think this quote is interesting because it makes you ask yourself which side you support. Can you decide your fate? Looking at this play, it appears that if you want to choose your fate you must commit suicide, otherwise your fate will be handed to you.
First on Athene I call; O Zeus-born goddess, defend! Goddess and sister, befriend, Artemis, Lady of Thebes, high-throned in the midst of our mart! Lord of the death-winged dart! Your threefold aid I crave From death and ruin our city to save. If in the days of old when we nigh had perished, ye drave From our land the fiery plague, be near us now and defend us!
This quoation is important to the play Oedipus Rex because the chorus shows the importance of the great Zeus and the city-state of Thebes. Therefore, it displays that in their time power, pride and victory was highly important.
"Alas, alas, what misery to be wise/When wisdom profits nothing!" -Terisias
Here Terisias is obstaining from telling King Oedipus of his fate, and the fate of the city. He wishes that he had no knowledge of the happenings and that his life would probably be much happier without the information. He laments, and states that even though he is known as the most wise and most intellectual in Thebes, he is definitely not the happiest. This theme seems to parallel with Oedipus' power. Though the king has the most power and can make rule upon all that he wishes, he is definitely not the most content. Sometimes, ignorance (or lack of power) is bliss.
I found a quote from the scene with Creon returning to Oedipus to tell him about the oracle's words. Oedipus asks him what news he has brought and he says "Good news, for e'en intolerable ills, Finding right issue, tend to naught but good." Creon could have many reasons for saying this. One being he believes that any news is good news, if taken in the right context. Or that bringing bad news will have a positive net effect. But I think he is saying this because he knows that the news he has brought is terrible news indeed and that it will cause Oedipus to become...upset...I think that Creon is just looking out for himself.
Then had I never come to shed My father's blood nor climbed my mother's bed;The monstrous offspring of a womb defiled, Co-mate of him who gendered me, and child. Was ever man before afflicted thus, Like Oedipus.
This quote basically sums up to the entire plot of the story, speak to the issues oedipus faces and the summarizing the sorrow he feels for the dreadful actions he has committed against his state and his kin.
Oedipus--"If, with my knowledge, house or hearth of mine receive the guilty man, upon my head lie all the curses I have laid on others"
This is a significant quote because it is talking about how Oedipus really has a desire to find the murderer. He states that if anyone doesnt tell what they know about the murder then they will be exiled from the kingdom and not be allowed participate in any religious celebration (prayer, sacrifices.) Oedipus also states that if anyone knows anything about the murder they should step up and tell all.
46 comments:
"This is well said, and a prudent man would ponder it. Judgements too quickly formed are dangerous."
pg.860 - Choragos
This quote refers to Creon's speech where anarachy is discussed. Creon think Oedipusdoes does wrong when he "takes good men for bad, bad men for good." "A true friend thrown aside - why life itself is not more precious." Choragos thinks judgements that come too quickly are dangerous becasue you need to give things time. By judging something or someone without getting the whole picture can make you get the wrong ideas. I believe such messages as this one are important to not only the "trial for murder" inside the book, but for life as a whole.
My own flesh and blood—dear sister, dear Ismene, how many griefs our father Oedipus handed down! Do you know one, I ask you, one grief that Zeus will not perfect for the two of us while we still live and breathe? There’s nothing, no pain—our lives are pain—no private shame, no public disgrace, nothing I haven’t seen in your grief and mine. (Antigone, 1–8)
This quote is important because it shows the plays concern with family relationships. Then Antigone reveals that Creon will not allow her brother Polynices to be buried. This quote shows Antigone's character and personality and shows that she knows whats going on and isn't afraid to speack up and share it.
“Why should a man whose life seems ruled by chance live in fear—a man who never looks ahead, who has no certain vision of his future? It’s best to live haphazardly, as best one can. Do not worry you will wed your mother. It’s true that in their dreams a lot of men have slept with their own mothers, but someone who ignores all this bears life more easily.” (Iocaste, Lines 1161-1168)
After Oedipus hears the news that his father, Polybos, has died, he begins to question the validity of the oracle because he obviously did not kill his father. Iocaste explains that this reaffirms her beliefs that the oracles are worth nothing. In this quote, she advises Oedipus to not worry about the oracle because it is useless to worry about something that you cannot control. Iocaste’s belief connects with the overall idea that everyone’s life is controlled by fate and there is no way, apart from death, to avoid your destiny.
"Speak before all; the burden that I bear Is more for these my subjects than myself."-Oedipus
This what Oedipus says to Creon right after Creon gets back from seeing the oracle. Oedipus is waiting to hear what he has to go to keep everyone from getting sick. And Creon wants to tell him in private but Oedipus wants him to "Speak before all", becuase he beleives that the "burden" that Creon is going to tell him is going to affect everyone, not just himself.
"To strike me too with his assassin hand. Therefore in righting him I serve myself.
Up, children, haste ye, quit these altar stairs, Take hence your suppliant wands, go summon hither
The Theban commons. With the god's good help Success is sure; 'tis ruin if we fail." (Oedipus in opening scene)
This is Oedipus' emoitions after being revealed to the news of his father's murder. He wants o take direct action and find the one responsible. The 'alter stairs' he refers too, lead me to believe that he is talking about the stairs to heaven, and if the 'children' (the people searching for the murderer), don't act fact they will never find them. He also refers to success with God, infering that He will lead them to solve the crime. There are a lot of references to Christianity and God throughout the story, and this is just a small portion of them.
"If that thou thinkest self-willed pride avails, apart from judgment, know thou art not wise." Creon lines 575-576
This quote is said by Creon to Oedipus after Oedipus has accused Creon of sending a messenger to tell him that he is the man he is looking for. Creon's quote says that it is not smart to believe that self-made pride is satisfied without judgement. In other words, your own judgements will determine how much self pride you have. I think this is important in the book because Oedipus doesn't believe that he could be the one who they are trying to find because he thinks too highly of himself and has too much pride. This, in the end, leads to his defeat.
"From our land the fiery plague, be near us now and defend us! Chorus. Strophe 1
This quote is important to the rest of the text that we have read so far because the chorus is asking Oedipus to save the town as he did before. When he saved the town the first time from the sphinx he became king. Now a plague is upon the city and the people are asking for Oedipus' help to save the city once again. This quote will also play out in the rest of the story when we learn whether or not he was able to help the town again.
"Pride breeds the tyrant violent pride, gorging, crammed to bursting with all that is overripe and rich with ruin.... Can such a man, so desperate, still boast he can save his life from the flashing bolts of god?"
This quote is stated by the Chorus who is obviously referring to Oedipus in very unflattering terms. This is because Oedipus believes he has the power to make his own choices and that the prophecy about him is not true. Yet the Chorus is telling him that it is in fact true and that his fate has already been determined. This is prevalent because throughout the entire story both predetermined fate and the power of human choice seem to be in question.
"Then I will start afresh, and once again shed light on darkness. It is most fitting that Apollo demonstrates his care for the dead man, and worthy of you, too. And so, as is right, you will see how I work with you, seeking vengeance for this land, as well as for the god" (159-165)
This quote is important to the rest of the text because this is when Oedipus declares that he will once again save the land from the plague.
"If, with my knowledge, house or hearth of mine receive the guilty man, upon my head lie all the curses I have laid on others" Oedipus (line 249-251)
This quote refers to Oedipus' resolution to find the person who committed the murder. Oedipus states in this quote that the act of finding the murderer is so important that he is willing to take the punishment if he has hidden any knowledge of the person. He is showing that because of the significance of the situation everyone should step up and share information they know, putting the community first. Oedipus warns that if someone conceals knowledge then they would be banished from the Kingdom and also would be excluded from all kinds of religious festivities such as prayers, holy water, and sacrifices.
"O woe is thee, poor wretch! With that last word I leave thee,henceforth silent evermore" (Iocasta).
This quote refers to Iocasta's response to Oedipus' desire to find who his real father was. I think that at this time Iocasta already knew who Oedipus' real father was, her dead husband. She was overcome by grief because she did not want the truth to be told to him. This is because she did not her marriage to be ruined. Furthermore, I think she she was unhappy because she was already knew she was going to end her life.
"People of Thebes, look on Oedipus. He solved the famous riddle with his brilliance, he rose to power, a man beyond all power. Who could behold his greatness without envy? Now what a black sea of terror has overwhelmed him. Now as we keep our watch and wait the final day, count no man happy till he dies, free of pain at last."(Chorus, final lines)
In this quote, the Chorus is speaking about Oedipus after he found out that he had killed his father and married his mother then blinded himself. It refers to his rise to power and his final fall from power because he became too proud and almighty and was eventually overwhelmed. This quote explains that we all have a fate and we can't escape in except for in death. And in death can one look back on their life and be happy.
There are many references to light and dark, which I think is a reference to the search for truth that encomapsses the entire play. Oedipus says, "I will start afresh and once again
Make dark things clear," in reference to finding the out the truth. The dark is the unknown and to gain truth will be to become enlightened.
Creon brought the report,"In this land, said the god; 'who seeks shall find;
Who sits with folded hands or sleeps is blind.'" The god is saying that those how do not know the truth are in the dark, figuratively blind. This is ironic because Oedipus is the one that seeks the truth, yet he is the one that is in the dark and once he does learn it, he becomes literally blind.
Jocasta stated that, "Why should a man whose life seems ruled by chance live in fear-a man who never looks ahead, who has no certain vision of his future? It's best to live haphazardly, as best one can" to Oedipus as he searches to find the truth of whom killed Loias (lines 1161-1164).
This quote has much significant to the text as much as others quotes, because it talks about a man's own fate, and how a man should live life as best as he can since he can not change what is ruled by fate! You can't avoid and or run away from your fate and or destiny that are destined in you. Oedipus ran away from home to avoid the truth of the prophecy of him will be killing his father and then marrying his mother. Although he ran away from them, who are not his real parents, at the end he did killed his father and then married his mother. However, to avoid and or end the fate, one must die like Jocasta did.
``Mea Pen``
"Well, I will start afresh and once again
Make dark things clear. Right worthy the concern
Of Phoebus, worthy thine too, for the dead;
I also, as is meet, will lend my aid
To avenge this wrong to Thebes and to the god." Oedipus
I chose this quote because it shows Oedipus's desperate power struggle that is caused by the fact that he is the new ruler and feels the need to win over everyone. I feel like much of this behavior has to do with his personality. This ego trip shows up later in a conversation with the spirit type thing that shows up.
Quote: "OEDIPUS: Mock my excellence, but you will find out I am truly great."
I think this is very important to the story because usually in ancient hero stories such as this the tragic flaw in the main character is his arrogance and I think this is a perfect example to show that. He already thinks he is great because he defeated the sphinx but there are other things that will come his way for sure that he is not ready for. This is possibly foreshadowing of his death.
"Fear? What should a mean fear? it's all chance, chance rules our lives. Not a man on earth can see a day ahead, groping through the dark. Better to live at random, best we can...Take such things for shadows, nothing at all -- Live, Oedipus, as if there's no tomorrow!"
I think this is a pretty significant quote because it's said by Jocasta who seems to be acting pretty arrogant, but at the same time she's pretty much telling Oedipus to do the same thing and live as if there's no tomorrow. But it's a little ironic to me at the same time, becaus she's telling Oedipus to live on the edge, but why would he even listen to this because he'd already sent Creon to the oracle?
"In thy report of what the herdsman said Laius was slain by robbers; now if he Still speaks of robbers, not a robber, I Slew him not; "one" with "many" cannot square. But if he says one lonely wayfarer, The last link wanting to my guilt is forged."
This quote refers to when Oedipus is trying to figure out if it was him who killed his father. This is through asking Jocasta details about the death, about how many people took part in the murder. This is an important part to the rest of the play in the sense that if it was just on man that took part in the death of King then it was him and the oracle was right. His wife would end up being his mom which it turns out it is.
Fear? What should a man fear? It’s all chance, chance rules our lives. Not a man on earth can see a day ahead, groping through the dark. Better to live at random, best we can. And as for this marriage with your mother—have no fear. Many a man before you, in his dreams, has shared his mother’s bed. Take such things for shadows, nothing at all— Live, Oedipus, as if there’s no tomorrow! (Oedipus the King, 1068–1078)
At this point in the play the audience knows of Oedipus's story and that Jocasta is Oedipus's mother. So the irony in what Jocasta is saying almost causes the audience to cringe. THe audience is like the soothsayer where we have lots of knowledge but it only brings pain.
"Well, let him go, no matter what it cost me, Or certain death or shameful banishment,For your sake I relent, not his; and him, Where'er he be, my heart shall still abhor." (Oedipus)
Here Oedipus declares that he will banish or kill the man who is guilty. The thing he doesn't know is that he might be the culpret with out knowing it. If he finds out that the killers where one person, he will be the first candidate. All the evidence will lead to him. So he made a regretable mistake when he make such a strict penalty.
Is that so? Then I would ask you to stand by the very words which you yourself proclaimed and from now on not speak to me or these men. For the accursed polluter of this land is you. (Teiresias lines 418-421)
Teiresias is telling Oedipus that he is the person that killed Laios, and he is the one bringing problems to Thebes. Oedipus of course does not realize this and that is the reason that he presses Teiresias further for the truth. When Teiresias tells Oedipus directly wht he did, Oedipus still does not believe that he is the one that killed the King. Oedipus is blinded by the power of his position and does not want to listen to those inferior to him.
"People of Thebes, look on Oedipus. He solved the famous riddle with his brilliance, he rose to power, a man beyond all power. Who could behold his greatness without envy? Now what a black sea of terror has overwhelmed him. Now as we keep our watch and wait the final day, count no man happy till he dies, free of pain at last."
This is at the very end that the chorus says this. It is important to the book because it reemphasizes the point that we can't escape our fate and that no matter how we try to stay away from our fate, it has a strange way of coming back to us.
"Time, who sees all things, he hath found thee out, 1264
Against thy will, and long ago condemned
The wedlock none may wed,
Begetter and begotten."
-Antistrophe
The chorus members appear to be the voice of summary in the play. This quote refers to one of the greatest themes in the book; the power of fate. The antistrophe refers to time as the thing that sees all things. In due time, Oedipus comes to know of his own fate that he is bound to. Even in wedlock, he isn't married because ihe is married to his mother. This quote epitomizes the tragedy that Oedipus bears throughout the piece.
"Let me report then all the god declared. King Phoebus bids us straitly extirpate a fell pollution that infests the land,
and no more harbor an inveterate sore."
This is a quote by Creon when he returns from the oracle and faces Oedipus. He asks Oedipus if he wants him to share in front of everyone and since "the burden that I bear is more for these my subjects than myself" he continues out loud. It is interesting that he uses the word pollution to describe the problem that I think will continue through out the story. The death will also pollute everyone in the community and establish a permanent sore.
"Why should anyone in this world be afraid, since Fate rules us and nothing can be for seen." (870)
This is really important because this is saying that they believe that you have no choice in how your life will turn out. That it is predetermined. This is rather hard to believe for some, and for others it's how they think of everything. But this quote is saying that nobody should worry about what is to happen in life because it's going to happen no matter what. It is important because it gives the reader insight on the character's character.
Well, I will start afresh and once again Make dark things clear. Right worthy the concern Of Phoebus, worthy thine too, for the dead;
I also, as is meet, will lend my aid To avenge this wrong to Thebes and to the god. Not for some far-off kinsman, but myself,
Shall I expel this poison in the blood; For whoso slew that king might have a mind To strike me too with his assassin hand. Therefore in righting him I serve myself.
Up, children, haste ye, quit these altar stairs,Take hence your suppliant wands, go summon hither
The Theban commons. With the god's good help Success is sure; 'tis ruin if we fail.
This is important because it shows that the king wants to find the murderer. He is telling the people that it can and will be done. He says that he cannot fail and he plans on finding the assassin.
"Hear then: this man whom thou hast sought to arrest
With threats and warrants this long while, the wretch
Who murdered Laius—that man is here.
He passes for an alien in the land
But soon shall prove a Theban, native born.
And yet his fortune brings him little joy;
For blind of seeing, clad in beggar's weeds,
For purple robes, and leaning on his staff,
To a strange land he soon shall grope his way."
This part is when the oracle comes and tells Oedipus who the killer actually was but doesn't actually name them. He says (while talking to Oediups) that the man who Oedipus has been looking for that murdered Laius is living amongst them and was born a Theban and grew up there, but the fact that he killed Laius doesn't make him happy because he can't see what he has done. When the oracle mentions purple robes I think it is implied that he is talking about someone higher-up in the social classes because the higher social classes wore purple back then. This is important because oracles typically do a lot of foreshadowing in these stories.
"He fell; and now the god's command is plain: Punish his takers-off, whoe'er they be."
Creon explains to Oedipus the fate of Laios. Oedipus was curious to where Laios was when he was murdered, traveling or in his own palace. Oedipus makes it clear that the murderer should be punished severly. The death of Laios is a key issue in the book, at least at the begining. As king, Oedipus takes charge and warns everyone who knows anything about the death to speak up.
Fear? What should a man fear? It’s all chance, chance rules our lives. Not a man on earth can see a day ahead, groping through the dark. Better to live at random, best we can. And as for this marriage with your mother—have no fear. 1068-Jocasta
I think that the quote above is important because it addresses one of the main themes of this play, which is fate and if one can aviod it or not. In this quotation, Jocasta is announcing that Oedipus must accept that his life is full of chance and randomness and that fate is not involved. I believe that Oedipus is bound to his fate, becuase he has discovered what it is. If Oedipus had not known his fate, then he would not be bound to it, and his life would truely be run by chance and randomness.
Banishment, or the shedding blood for blood.
This stain of blood makes shipwreck of our state. -( Creon)
This quote is significant because it's the explanation of what must be done in order to save the city. The main point is that either the new king must be banished or killed in order to help the city to survive. It's the turning point of the story and probably one of the most important parts of the whole story.
"Jocasta: Ah mayst thou ne'er dicover who thou art!"
This is just one of the few string of pleas that Jocasta told to Oedipus to hope that he not learn who he really is. I found this one interesting because this means that Jocasta already knew that she was having children with not only her own son, but also her husbands killer. I believe she must have already been teetering on suicide before this event occured, but she didn't act it, the grief should have been overwhelming...unless she was one rather twisted person...
"Who murdered Laius—that man is here.
He passes for an alien in the land
But soon shall prove a Theban, native born."
This quote from Teiresias speaking to Oedipus is important because it establishes the beginning of the prophecy. Teiresias says that Oedipus, who was established to be the murderer previously, is more than he appears to be. He begins to talk about how in the future people will realize that Oedipus is a Theban and not a foreigner. This shows Teiresias' insight into Oedipus' future.
He fell; and now the god's command is plain:
Punish his takers-off, whoe'er they be. (Creon)
This quote is important to the text because it is the point in the story where Creon reveals to Oedipus that his polybos has been killed. It is also a crucial quote to the text because it may be foreshadowing what is to be the fate those who committed the murder
In this land, said the god; "who seeks shall find;
Who sits with folded hands or sleeps is blind."
-Creon
This quote shows the amount of morals the greeks had compared to the modern world. This is the beggining of the man hunt for the person who killed the previous king. This quote means that one who is apathetic sees nothing and knows nothing. In order for the killer to be found, everyone has to work hard and see clearly.
"O gods, descend! Like three streams leap against the fires of our grief, the fires of darkness; be swift to bring us rest!" (Antistrophe 1, 14-17)
One major theme of this novel is that humans will always want more power and control. They have created all sorts of technology to make it easier for them to gain control of anything weaker than them, but they usurp their power and will become tyrants. Humans are selfish and forget about justice, the gods, love and caring for others as well as nature and strive only to get what they want, which is more control. In this quote, fires are mentioned and this is a technology humans discovered and use it to gain more power. 'the fires of our grief' refers to the fact that their technology and power-hungry ways has burned all the common good out of them and now they will lose the love of their gods and go to hell or 'darkness' and they grieve this.
'O gods, descend... Be swift to bring us rest' this means that with the humans destroying themselves, they are turning to the gods to save them but the only way to save the damage that's been done is to obliterate it. 'bring us to rest' could mean to kill the humans to put out their fire with the 'three streams' or the gods (Zeus, Poseidon, and Hades).
Molly Riegel
"Peddlers are ye all And I the merchandise ye buy and sell. Go to, and make your profit where ye will, Silver of Sardis change for gold of Ind; Ye will not purchase this man's burial, Not though the winged ministers of Zeus Should bear him in their talons to his throne; Not e'en in awe of prodigy so dire" -Creon
This quote is Creon saying that he will not be bought and sold like mechandise by Teiresias. He will defend himself and Oedipus.
Would I permit his burial, for I know
No human soilure can assail the gods;
"The greatest griefs are those we cause ourselves."
-SOPHOCLES, Oedipus Rex
This quote said by Oedipus is important to the play because it shows that he has taken responsibility for his acions. He feels as though he must be punished for the acts he has committed and is willing to take account for them.
"To twit me with my blindness--thou hast eyes,
Yet see'st not in what misery thou art fallen,
Nor where thou dwellest nor with whom for mate.
Dost know thy lineage? Nay, thou know'st it not,
And all unwitting art a double foe
To thine own kin, the living and the dead;
Aye and the dogging curse of mother and sire
One day shall drive thee, like a two-edged sword,
Beyond our borders, and the eyes that now
See clear shall henceforward endless night."-TEIRESIAS
This quote is important because it speaks about Oedipus being blind to what is going on around him. Though Oedipus can see perfectly well, he chooses not to see certain things, or is so set in certain beliefs that it is impossbile for him to see the truth. It seems that this is a common theme in the book, when Teiresias tells Oedipus that it is he himself that has committed the crime, but Oedipus just keeps asking Teiresias to say the same thing over and over, though the answer is not going to change. It seems that Oedipus is not aware of what is going on around him, and is more focused on only the good going on in his land.
"To twit me with my blindness--thou hast eyes,
Yet see'st not in what misery thou art fallen,
Nor where thou dwellest nor with whom for mate.
Dost know thy lineage? Nay, thou know'st it not,
And all unwitting art a double foe
To thine own kin, the living and the dead;
Aye and the dogging curse of mother and sire
One day shall drive thee, like a two-edged sword,
Beyond our borders, and the eyes that now
See clear shall henceforward endless night."-TEIRESIAS
This quote is important because it speaks about Oedipus being blind to what is going on around him. Though Oedipus can see perfectly well, he chooses not to see certain things, or is so set in certain beliefs that it is impossbile for him to see the truth. It seems that this is a common theme in the book, when Teiresias tells Oedipus that it is he himself that has committed the crime, but Oedipus just keeps asking Teiresias to say the same thing over and over, though the answer is not going to change. It seems that Oedipus is not aware of what is going on around him, and is more focused on only the good going on in his land.
"Better to live at random, best we can."
This is one of the many quotes in the book that show someone's view of fate. There are many places where someone says that they believe one's fate is either predestined or not. I think this quote is interesting because it makes you ask yourself which side you support. Can you decide your fate? Looking at this play, it appears that if you want to choose your fate you must commit suicide, otherwise your fate will be handed to you.
First on Athene I call; O Zeus-born goddess, defend!
Goddess and sister, befriend,
Artemis, Lady of Thebes, high-throned in the midst of our mart!
Lord of the death-winged dart!
Your threefold aid I crave
From death and ruin our city to save.
If in the days of old when we nigh had perished, ye drave
From our land the fiery plague, be near us now and defend us!
This quoation is important to the play Oedipus Rex because the chorus shows the importance of the great Zeus and the city-state of Thebes. Therefore, it displays that in their time power, pride and victory was highly important.
"Alas, alas, what misery to be wise/When wisdom profits nothing!" -Terisias
Here Terisias is obstaining from telling King Oedipus of his fate, and the fate of the city. He wishes that he had no knowledge of the happenings and that his life would probably be much happier without the information. He laments, and states that even though he is known as the most wise and most intellectual in Thebes, he is definitely not the happiest. This theme seems to parallel with Oedipus' power. Though the king has the most power and can make rule upon all that he wishes, he is definitely not the most content. Sometimes, ignorance (or lack of power) is bliss.
I found a quote from the scene with Creon returning to Oedipus to tell him about the oracle's words. Oedipus asks him what news he has brought and he says "Good news, for e'en intolerable ills,
Finding right issue, tend to naught but good." Creon could have many reasons for saying this. One being he believes that any news is good news, if taken in the right context. Or that bringing bad news will have a positive net effect. But I think he is saying this because he knows that the news he has brought is terrible news indeed and that it will cause Oedipus to become...upset...I think that Creon is just looking out for himself.
Then had I never come to shed
My father's blood nor climbed my mother's bed;The monstrous offspring of a womb defiled, Co-mate of him who gendered me, and child. Was ever man before afflicted thus, Like Oedipus.
This quote basically sums up to the entire plot of the story, speak to the issues oedipus faces and the summarizing the sorrow he feels for the dreadful actions he has committed against his state and his kin.
Oedipus--"If, with my knowledge, house or hearth of mine receive the guilty man, upon my head lie all the curses I have laid on others"
This is a significant quote because it is talking about how Oedipus really has a desire to find the murderer. He states that if anyone doesnt tell what they know about the murder then they will be exiled from the kingdom and not be allowed participate in any religious celebration (prayer, sacrifices.) Oedipus also states that if anyone knows anything about the murder they should step up and tell all.
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