In the excerpt from "Oedipus Rex," the tension between Oedipus, the King of Thebes, and the blind prophet Teiresias is palpable. Oedipus is in a state of distress and seeks answers from Teiresias regarding the plague afflicting Thebes, believing that the prophet possesses crucial knowledge that could save the city. Teiresias, however, is reluctant to share what he knows, hinting that revealing the truth could lead to further misery for both Oedipus and the people of Thebes. His refusal to speak frustrates Oedipus, who feels betrayed and accuses Teiresias of withholding vital information out of fear or malice. The conflict highlights Oedipus's desperation and determination to uncover the truth, even as Teiresias warns him of the potential consequences of that knowledge. This interaction sets the stage for the unfolding tragedy, emphasizing themes of blindness, fate, and the struggle for knowledge.
OEDIPUS
What ails thee? Why this melancholy mood?
TEIRESIAS
Let me go home; prevent me not; 'twere best
That thou shouldst bear thy burden and I mine.
OEDIPUS
For shame! no true-born Theban patriot
Would thus withhold the word of prophecy.
TEIRESIAS
Thy words, O king, are wide of the mark, and I
For fear lest I too trip like thee...
OEDIPUS
Oh speak,
Withhold not, I adjure thee, if thou know'st,
Thy knowledge. We are all thy suppliants.
TEIRESIAS
Aye, for ye all are witless, but my voice
Will ne'er reveal my miseries—or thine. 2
OEDIPUS
What then, thou knowest, and yet willst not speak!
Wouldst thou betray us and destroy the State?
TEIRESIAS
I will not vex myself nor thee. Why ask
Thus idly what from me thou shalt not learn?
OEDIPUS
Monster! thy silence would incense a flint.
Will nothing loose thy tongue? Can nothing melt Describe the events that happen through page 20 of the book. If you have the PDF your description ends with the quote "What ails thee? Why this melancholy mood?"
You need to write at least five sentences, but you can write more.
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1 answer