Oedipus as a Tragic Hero
Tragedies, particularly great tragedies, almost always have a tragic hero, which we sympathize with and learn something from. But what makes a tragic hero? Does a true tragic hero have to die or only suffer a downfall to learn the meaning of life? ... What about how a hero is remembered? ... However, can someone once seen in disgrace become a hero? Oedipus displays the qualities of a tragic hero by causing his own downfall. ... Oedipus causes his own downfall through his actions. ... ” Oedipus is apparently unaware of what Teresias is talking about. ... Suddenly, all becomes clear to Oedipus and he soon realizes he has caused his own downfall from the beginning. Oedipus is immediately so overcome with grief over the suicide of his mother/wife that he feels ashamed and miserable.