Irony In Oedipus
In Sophocles’ tragedy, ”Oedipus Rex,” Oedipus’ fated downfall ironically results from his impiety and hubris in foolishly pursuing an escape from such fate. Oedipus first demonstrates impiety when hearing Tiresias accuse him of killing Laius, calling Tiresias a “purblind man: in ears and mind and vision” (22). This jibe is ironic because, in reality, Oedipus is blind to the truth, notwithstanding his sight. Since Tiresias represents Apollo’s will, insulting him is an act of impiety.
Further, Oedipus reveals his hubris by assuming Tiresias is mistaken and that Oedipus himself knows better. Oedipus’ intentional disregard of Tiresias’ information and his arrogance in continuing to seek the “truth” he desires instead of accepting his fate eventually lead to his downfall. Later in his conversation with Tiresias, Oedipus proclaims, “‘But I, the Oedipus who stumbled here without a hint, could snuff her out by human wit, not taking cues from birds’” (23). This quote is ironic because Oedipus’ decision to leave Corinth after learning of the oracle’s prophecy, was based not on his own knowledge, but rather, on divine instruction (in other words, he was “taking cues from birds”). Oedipus’ criticism of divine information further shows his hubris and emphasizes his reliance on human knowledge. This recurring trait contributes to his downfall because the gods do not tolerate prideful humans and exact retribution on them.
Finally, Oedipus explains his decision to leave Corinth as an effort to fight his fate: “‘Oh I fled from there, I measure out the stars and put all heaven in between the land of Corinth and such a damned destiny’” (44). His decision to run from Corinth toward Thebes to escape his fate is ironic because he is actually running toward his ill-fated destiny instead of away from it. This statement is impious in that Oedipus dismisses the will of the gods and confidently believes he thwarted it. His impious rejection of his destiny effectively fulfills it. Oedipus' impiety and hubris prompt him to neglect important information, falsely believe that he controls his own fate, and attempt to outrun his destiny. Ironically, in the end, these poor judgments and efforts to find the truth make him blind to it.
