Oedpius the King
by Sophocles
Sophocles’ famous tragedy unfolds as a murder mystery set against the backdrop of Thebes; a city in the grip a devastating plague. Desperate to save his people and appease the gods, King Oedipus seeks to uncover the cause of the plague by consulting the oracle. The oracle advises that the discovery and punishment of the murderer of King Laius will end the plague and renew prosperity. Oedipus sets about to uncover the mystery, relentlessly seeking the truth and gradually unravelling a web of secrets that lead him to a horrifying realisation, that he is himself the source of the deadly pollution afflicting the city. Devastated by his own complicity in the very curse he sought to solve, the once great Oedipus is destined to live out his days in blind banishment. The play explores themes of fate and free will, wisdom and knowledge, and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
Suitability - Year 11 & 12
VCE English/EAL - Unit 3 & 4, Area of Study 1 Reading and Responding
Idea/Issue/Theme - Fate vs free will, wisdom and knowledge, consequences of unchecked ambition
Duration - 70 minutes + Q&A (90 minute session)
Live
In school performance
Term 3: 22 July - 16 August
Cost
$22.50 per student (groups 100+)
$2,250 minimum performance fee
Digital Study Guide
-Now Available-
A Video Study Guide unpacking the key themes and issues from the text using a combination of performance, academic analysis and interactive prompts to enhance students’ understanding.
More Information here.
