Oedipus Rex is a Tragedy Many things can describe a tragedy. However, according to definition of a tragedy by Aristotle, there are only five. The play has to have a tragic hero, preferably of noble stature. Second, the tragic hero must have a tragic flaw. Because of that flaw, the hero falls from either power or death. Due to the fall, the tragic hero discovers something. Finally, there must be catharsis in the minds of …showed first 75 words of 755 total…

…showed last 75 words of 755 total…gods controlled what was going to happen to them. It was their destiny. Oedipus Rex proves to strengthen their belief in the gods. This is done by Oedipus fulfilling everything that was prophesized for him to do. Laius and Jocasta sent Oedipus to his death, but the Shepard couldn't do it. Oedipus then hears the prophecy in Corinth, and flees. On his subsequent journey, he kills his father, comes to Thebes, and marries his mother.