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A review by josiahdegraaf
Oedipus at Colonus by Sophocles
3.0
Oedipus at Colonus is an interesting play. Its chronologically sandwiched between two of the greatest Greek tragedies (Oedipus Rex & Antigone)--but it was also the last play written in this Theban trio. Oedipus Rex & Antigone are packed-full of action--but on the outset, little happens in Oedipus at Colonus, leading it to be forgotten and much-less studied compared with its more interesting counterparts.
While I understand its relative lack of popularity, however, I was glad to have read this center play. As Oedipus rages against the gods, questions why he's guilty for actions he committed unwillingly, and grapples with the nature of human futility, I was moved. More than any of the other plays, whether Sophocles means to or not (probably unintentional on his part), the capriciousness of the Greek gods and their punishment of Oedipus can really be felt here. The agonies of an unjust moral system are clearly displayed. And the triumph of Oedipus at the play's end feels earned.
There is much less to discuss with this work as its counterparts. But as a Christian, out of the three Theban plays, this perhaps best shows me the nature of the world Christ entered into and the pressingness of mankind's need for a Savior.
Rating: 3.5 Stars (Good).
While I understand its relative lack of popularity, however, I was glad to have read this center play. As Oedipus rages against the gods, questions why he's guilty for actions he committed unwillingly, and grapples with the nature of human futility, I was moved. More than any of the other plays, whether Sophocles means to or not (probably unintentional on his part), the capriciousness of the Greek gods and their punishment of Oedipus can really be felt here. The agonies of an unjust moral system are clearly displayed. And the triumph of Oedipus at the play's end feels earned.
There is much less to discuss with this work as its counterparts. But as a Christian, out of the three Theban plays, this perhaps best shows me the nature of the world Christ entered into and the pressingness of mankind's need for a Savior.
Rating: 3.5 Stars (Good).