Unraveling Oedipus Tragic Flaws: A Research Analysis

Abstract

OEDIPUS THE KING RESEARCH PAPER (PART I) Due Date: 28 MARCH 2022 (Monday Night, before Midnight)—submitted via CANVAS. Format: Typed (Word-Processed, Courier New 12 point) Directions: Students must provide five (5) examples of each of the FIRST FOUR Character Traits, AND THE LAST MAIN EXAMPLE of the FIFTH TRAIT, of Oedipus, as indicated in the NOTES ON THE TRAITS OF THE CLASSICAL TRAGIC HERO. Each example should begin with a short quotation from the play (1-2 lines at most) which demonstrates Oedipus acting out this trait. Each quotation must present in parenthetical format (MLA). After the quotation, students should give three to four sentences of explanation about the context of the quotation. The following examples provide the model you should follow for the correct format, taken from Shakespeare’s play Othello: FIRST TRAIT: HIGH SOCIAL STANDING (FROM OTHELLO by Shakespeare) “Othello, you are our great leader” (Act 1, Scene 2, Line 5). This quotation is spoken by the Duke of Venice, who is hailing Othello. Venice is being harassed by pirates, and the Duke is looking to Othello to save the city. “My dear and noble husband, it is to you I owe my life” (2.4. 13-14). This quote is spoken by Desdemona, the wife of Othello. They have just married and Desdemona is pleased to start her new life with the man she recognizes as her future assurance. “General, we bring you bad news about the pirates: they have recaptured the city and are harrowing the women and children” (4.1. 220-222). The General is Othello, and he is being addressed by his top lieutenant, Iago. Iago is conveying bad news about the reversal of the victory earlier achieved against the pirates. “Even though the Moor is over all of Venice, he is a poor judge of character” (4.3. 11-12). The Duke’s wife is speaking about Othello having misjudged Desdemona’s fidelity. Othello believed the lies Iago had told about Desdemona, and consequently accused her of being a cheat. “Though Othello was the greatest of warriors and could battle the enemy, he was his own worst enemy” (5.2. 13-14). Cassius has taken over command of Othello’s post, and is reminiscing about...