Fate and Freewill in Oedipus the King
In Sophocles’ work, Oedipus the King, fate plays a key role in the tragedy’s story line. Oedipus exemplifies Sophocles’ belief that fate will always control a man’s life no matter how much free will the man exhibits. During Oedipus’ travels, he first leaves his home in Thebes, only to later come back to fulfill his fate inadvertently. It was in Oedipus’ fate to leave and return to Thebes, despite the fact that his journeys were put in motion by several attempts to escape his destiny. A prophecy was foretold to Oedipus’ parents, King Lauis and Queen Jocasta, that their son’s destiny was to slay his father and wed his mother. ... Even though Lauis should know that fate can not be stopped, he still endeavors to put a stop to the events before the oracle is given time to come true.