Question

Explain how Oedipus’s motivation in the Prologue relates to the plot.

Answer 1

Oedipus was motivated by Alot or too much pride , He sees himself as a High honored or Glorified Man because the people in his town consider him as their Hero and a successor to the throne. His hubris granted him alot to the plot that caused a conflict between him and Teiresias when he was confronted of accusing the killing Laius.

Answer 2

Oedipus's motivation in making the "accused" pay for the crime of killing Laius and cleansing the city of Thebes of the "pollution" relates to the plot of the whole story.

Step-by-step explanation:

The play "Oedipus" by Sophocles tells the story of Oedipus, who unknowingly killed his own father and married his own mother. He is the tragic hero of the story, becoming the victim of his own making.

The prologue of the play shows Oedipus vainly asserting his glory at being made king of Thebes. He identified himself with the city, asserting his power by declaring the accused to be found out so that he will safeguard his kingdom. This arrogance or pride in himself led to him becoming blind of his other deeds, including the accusations or rather the proclamation of Tiresias, the prophet. This pride motivates him to act further like he is capable of doing everything, thus progressing the plot. His motivation in searching and finding the "pollution' of the city relates to the plot of the main story. If he hadn't asked for the "pollution" to be cleansed, or finding the "accused', he might not have ended up finding out his real identity and meeting his fate.