FREE WILL VS. FATE IN OEDIPUS REX The great philosopher Socrates believes that humans rule themselves with a combination of fate and free will. In Oedipus Rex a combination of fate and free will contribute to the destruction of Oedipus Rex. Oedipus’ oracle, his quest for the truth, and his self-blinding all concur to destroy Oedipus’ life. Before the play begins, Apollo ordains that Oedipus will kill his father and sleep with his mother. Oedipus …showed first 75 words of 495 total…

…showed last 75 words of 495 total…someone to guide him and a cane. Through a combination of fate and free will, Oedipus completely dismantles his life. At the conclusion of Oedipus Rex, Oedipus is blind and leaving his homeland in exile with the knowledge that he commits parricide and incest. From the story of Oedipus Rex a person learns that no matter how fortunate he is at the moment, at any juncture in time, everything can be taken away from him.