Blog 6 : Oedipus the king

In the play Oedipus the king, i believe that destiny decided the outcome of Oedipus's life. Throughout the play Oedipus's destiny was discovered at birth. His father and mother, Laius and Jocasta brought their child to a prophet. This prophet discussed Oedipus's destiny in which he held since birth. From lines 1400-1410 Oedipus finally learns the truth about his family and who he really is. During the old ages they believed that everyone had a destiny that one would overcome. Oedipus had his destiny which was killing his father, marrying his mother, and going blind. Throughout lines 1480-1510, and 1620-1660 it states the experience Oedipus went through when he witnessed the truth before his eyes. After learning the truth and being blind throughout his life even with his eye sight, Oedipus's mother hung herself. Once Oedipus discovered what his destiny truly was he left his family, whom he thought was his biological family. In lines, 1390-1400 1360-1370 it discusses what happened to Oedipus since birth. After leaving his home trying to avoid his destiny, he slowly led himself to what was his is true destiny. He left his town and his family and ran into his father King Laius at the time. He encountered a problem with his father and he killed him not knowing that this was father. Oedipus was defending himself but little did he know he was blind to the truth, the entire time. He later takes his father’s position and marries his mother after being told the truth he stabs his eyes out. I would consider this action being free will but at the end of the play it all leads back to his destiny. Even though, Oedipus did his best to prevent his destiny from occurring it wasn’t enough. What is meant to happen will happen and this was the case throughout the play. No matter how hard one can try to fix a situation, sometimes it just won't work because that’s just how their destiny is. Everyone has a path to follow, and a time to leave. Sometimes following your destiny could have its advantages and disadvantages. In Oedipus’s case it was a disadvantage that he tried to prevent, but just ended up backfiring him in the end of the play. Overall, these statements conclude as to why I believe destiny determined Oedipus's life in the play.