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The Many Functions of Tiresias in Sophocles' Oedipus Rex
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Tony Vitt AP/IB English 11 Mrs. Miller 19 September 2002 The Many Functions of Tiresias in Sophocles' Oedipus Rex The minor role of Tiresias fulfills several chief purposes in Sophocles' Oedipus Rex, all of which are necessary in guiding the play through to its tragic ending and the completion of the prophecies. Tiresias primarily functions as the catalyst ultimately responsible for the provocation of Oedipus' venomous jealousy, a vital factor in the play's progression. The calm and confident Tiresias also acts as a foil for Oedipus through his dramatic difference in character, which allows the reader to see Oedipus for who he really is and realize that it was he who brought about his own downfall. Lastly, the wise prophet who functions as an authoritative father figure to the authority-threatened king (Lesser 147-148) helps make the motif of fathers, all of whom Oedipus sees as threats, evident. This motif of father figures is strongly...
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