im doing an paper based upon a(n)analysis of the causes of the tragic ending of Oedipus the King. (Possible causes include the actions and character of Oedipus or of other characters, coincidence, outside events, or the gods).
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cause and effects of tragedy
This is a subject of great debate. Some argue that the arrogance of Laius and Jocasta and later of Oedipus lead to the tragedy. Others contend that the gods set this all up and Oedipus is an innocent victim. Evidence exists on both sides. Select one side and support it with passages from the text.
For example, if Oedipus were not so hotheaded, he would not have killed Laius along the road. On the other hand, if the gods decreed that he would kill his father, then he was destined to kill him eventually. When Jocasta gave birth to Oedipus and Laius learned that his son would murder him, it was a done deal: nothing could stop it from happening. The gods saw to it that his life was spared by the shepherd so that he could fulfill the prophesy.
For example, if Oedipus were not so hotheaded, he would not have killed Laius along the road. On the other hand, if the gods decreed that he would kill his father, then he was destined to kill him eventually. When Jocasta gave birth to Oedipus and Laius learned that his son would murder him, it was a done deal: nothing could stop it from happening. The gods saw to it that his life was spared by the shepherd so that he could fulfill the prophesy.
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