Oedipus at Colonus summary

The Exile and Acceptance of Oedipus

Beginning Sophocles' Oedipus at Colonus, we find the once mighty king Oedipus living in exile, accompanied by his loyal daughter Antigone. Oedipus, who is now blind and in rags, carries the burden of his past actions - killing his father and marrying his mother. They arrive at the village of Colonus, near Athens, where they hope to find refuge.

In a somber twist, Oedipus is informed by a local citizen that he has trespassed on a sacred ground, a grove dedicated to the Furies, goddesses of vengeance. Oedipus, however, senses the auspiciousness of the spot and insists on waiting for the arrival of king Theseus, the ruler of Athens, to seek his protection.

The Power Struggle

Meanwhile, a messenger arrives from Thebes with an appeal for Oedipus to return. We learn that the power struggle has erupted between Oedipus' sons, Eteocles and Polynices, both wanting Oedipus' support. However, Oedipus curses both of his sons for neglecting him in his exile. He refuses the offer, harboring bitterness about being banished from Thebes.

The messenger, in truth, his treacherous brother-in-law Creon, forcibly tries to usher Oedipus back, but he is thwarted by the arrival of Theseus. The king of Athens, maintaining the sacred duties of hospitality, gives his protection to Oedipus and sends Creon away.

Reunion and Foreseen Death

The narrative shifts with the sudden arrival of Oedipus' other daughter, Ismene. She reveals that an oracle has prophesied that Oedipus' grave shall bring fortune to the city where he is buried. Meanwhile, Polynices arrives, seeking forgiveness and support from Oedipus in a war against his brother. Oedipus sternly refuses, predicting the deaths of both sons from their impending conflict.

Oedipus then confides in Theseus, revealing that the time of his death is near. He commits to bless the city of Athens and its people as a token of gratitude for their hospitable treatment. All he asks in return is a proper burial and the company of his daughters till his death.

Conclusion and Transfiguration

The climax of Oedipus at Colonus unveils a poignant scene where Oedipus, sensing his death, bids a touching goodbye to his daughters. He asks Theseus to take care of them and leads the king to his resting place. The process is one of quiet mysticism, as Oedipus' passing is described as a gentle transfiguration rather than a somber death.

In conclusion, Oedipus at Colonus chronicles the tragic end of Oedipus, a fallen king. His road to redemption might be steeped in tragedy, but it eventually leads him to find peace in death. It's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of extreme adversity.