Oedipus Rex

I believe the structure of this play is fairly cohesive and coherent. Distinguishable plot changes allow us to discern between the rising action, climax, and denouement. How interesting it is that Oedipus unknowingly kills his father and marries his mother. This is a huge utilization of dramatic irony, like we talked about last time in class. The classic, cliché, and motif of a messenger did not go unrecognized in this play either. And of course, once again one must question the messenger's authenticity. Usually the audience has a slight clue as to whether or not the messenger is lying, but this time we have to go off of other prophets' claims as well as the messenger. One can see the rising action occur as Oedipus refuses to believe all the testaments given to him. The exact point of realization that he had killed his father and married his mother proves to be an effective climax for all of this chaos building in the scene and play. Although I must admit, the denouement is a little disturbing when Oedipus gouges his eyes out and lives the rest of his days as a wanderer/outcast. But nevertheless, it did provide a closing to the play, which will also bring me to a closing in my entry.