According to Greek mythology, one’s personality ultimately affected the course of their lives. For instance, if one was considered wise, they were likely to live a good life. The contrary also holds true.
This paper will evaluate the role of fate and free will in Oedipus’ life.
Oedipus solved the Sphinx riddle whose solution lay in the three main stages of human life. As a child, Oedipus was sent out to die by his parents for fear of the fulfillment of prophesy. This stage was a work of fate as it was in relation to prophesy that depended on their action.
As a young man, he set out on a journey to find his true origin, unknowingly killing his father at the crossroads. His personality influenced his decision to kill as he was very stubborn and did not want to be pushed aside. Since his personality was gifted by the gods, the result was an act of fate.
After becoming king and unknowingly marrying his mother, he eventually discovered what he had done and he gauged his eyes out, an act of free will.
Oedipus confuses reason for hubris when he decides to kill people at the crossroads. on the contrary, Hippolytus uses reason to not fall for Phaedra’s temptation and his step-mother. Oedipus mistakes free will for fate when he marries his mother. In a similar manner, Hippolytus fails to worship Aphrodite causing his death by a curse from Theseus.
The similarity between the Greek and modern society is that both are influenced by the circle of life. On the other hand, the former is controlled by gods while the latter by free will.
In conclusion, individuals are still uncertain about the influence of free will and fate on their lives.
