What are the 3 quotes from the Oedipus play in lines 260 - 320, what do they mean, and what does the audience already know?
Quotes from the Oedipus play in lines 260 - 320:
1. "Blind who now has eyes, beggar who now is rich, he will grope his way toward a foreign soil, a stick tapping before him step by step."
This quote means that Oedipus, who was once blind to the truth, now sees the reality of his situation. He is likened to a beggar who was once poor but is now wealthy, yet still faces struggles and challenges. The audience already knows that Oedipus unknowingly killed his father and married his mother.
2. "Streams of blood are at the crossroads, as you make for Thebes, where two roads meet."
This quote warns of the impending doom and tragedy that will befall Oedipus as he heads towards Thebes. The audience is aware of the prophecy that Oedipus will kill his father and marry his mother, which will result in a tragic fate for him.
3. "The man loves you, Apollo, but his fate, he neither loved nor hated, groomed to kill his sire, share his mother's bed."
This quote reveals Oedipus's unknowing journey towards fulfilling the prophecy of killing his father and marrying his mother. The audience already knows the tragic fate that awaits Oedipus due to his actions.
Understanding Dramatic Irony in Oedipus:
Dramatic irony is a literary device where the audience knows something that the characters do not, leading to tension and suspense in the plot. In the case of Oedipus, the audience is aware of the prophecy given to Oedipus's parents - King Laius and Queen Jocasta - that their son would kill his father and marry his mother.
As Oedipus makes his way towards Thebes, he unknowingly fulfills this prophecy. The quotes from lines 260 - 320 highlight the tragic irony of Oedipus's situation. Despite his best intentions, Oedipus is destined to bring about his downfall through his actions, guided by fate.
The first quote symbolizes Oedipus's newfound awareness of the truth, likened to a blind man who now sees. This mirrors his realization of his dark past and the consequences of his actions. The audience is already aware of Oedipus's tragic fate, heightening the tension in the play.
The second quote foreshadows the bloodshed and tragedy that will unfold as Oedipus reaches Thebes. The audience understands the significance of the crossroads and the impending doom that awaits Oedipus on his journey.
Lastly, the third quote emphasizes Oedipus's unwitting path towards fulfilling the prophecy. Despite his love for Apollo and his intentions, Oedipus is destined to carry out the tragic events foretold in the prophecy.
Overall, the dramatic irony in Oedipus's story adds depth and complexity to the narrative, showcasing the power of fate and the consequences of one's actions. The audience's knowledge of the truth enhances the emotional impact of Oedipus's tragic journey, making it a timeless classic in the world of literature.