Final answer:
The central idea of 'The Legend of Oedipus' is the inevitable fall of a tragic hero, who fulfills a prophecy of killing his father and marrying his mother despite his efforts to avoid it. Oedipus' arrogance and quest for truth lead to his downfall, but his acceptance of responsibility makes his story a powerful lesson in fate and ethical decision-making.
Step-by-step explanation:
The central idea of the tale of Oedipus revolves around the themes of fate versus free will, the pursuit of truth, and the consequences of human flaws. Oedipus, the Greek Hero and protagonist of Sophocles' tragedy, exemplifies the classic tragic hero who falls from grace due to his hamartia or tragic flaw, which is arrogance. Despite his intelligence and intention to defy destiny by escaping a horrid prophecy, he inadvertently fulfills it by killing his father and marrying his mother, bringing disaster upon himself and his city.
The play also delves into the concept of ethical choices and justice, as Oedipus is determined to seek truth and justice for the former king's death. This pursuit, even in the face of warnings, leads to his own undoing. His story is an educational tool for the audience, leading them through a cathartic experience and emphasizing that even noble intentions can lead to tragic outcomes.
Ultimately, Oedipus acknowledges his mistakes and takes responsibility for his actions, an important display of character that still holds lessons for modern audiences. By blinding himself and abandoning his kingship, Oedipus becomes a living testament to the play's moral lessons. This resolution reinforces the power of the gods in Greek mythology and the inescapability of one's destiny, while still honoring the human capacity to take responsibility for one's actions.