Oedipus the King and Antigone (Crofts Classics) : Book Review

"Oedipus the King and Antigone" is a timeless collection of two tragic plays penned by the celebrated playwright Sophocles. These works have stood the test of time and continue to captivate audiences with their profound themes and engaging storytelling.

In "Oedipus the King," we are introduced to Oedipus, the ruler of Thebes, as he embarks on a quest to uncover the truth about his own identity and the devastating plague afflicting his city. As the play unfolds, Oedipus's relentless pursuit of the truth leads him to a shocking and tragic revelation that forever alters the course of his life.

The focus then shifts to Oedipus's daughter, Antigone, in the play "Antigone." After her brothers kill one another in a power struggle, their uncle, King Creon, issues a decree forbidding the burial of one of them. Against this unjust law, Antigone takes a defiant stand and vows to give her brother the proper burial rites, defying the king's authority. Through her unwavering determination and commitment to her beliefs, Antigone becomes a symbol of moral courage and resistance against oppressive laws.

Throughout both plays, Sophocles weaves together themes of fate, free will, power, and morality. The complex characters grapple with internal struggles and the consequences of their actions, providing readers with a thought-provoking exploration of human nature and the pursuit of knowledge and control.

Sophocles's writing style is eloquent, infused with vivid poetic imagery that brings the narrative to life. The dialogue between the characters is emotionally charged, reflecting the intense conflicts and passions at play. The pacing of the plays is skillfully executed, gradually building tension and suspense until the climactic and tragic resolutions.

What are readers saying?

Sophocles' book "Oedipus the King and Antigone" has garnered a variety of responses from readers. Overall, the timeless themes and powerful storytelling of both plays are appreciated, although certain aspects have proven challenging or outdated.

In "Oedipus the King," readers commend Sophocles' ability to create a captivating tale of fate and tragedy. The suspenseful plot and the depth of Oedipus' character are particularly lauded. The play's exploration of guilt, destiny, and the consequences of one's actions resonates deeply with readers. However, a few reviewers did mention that the language and writing style can prove difficult to comprehend, which affected their overall enjoyment.

Likewise, in "Antigone," Sophocles' adeptness in addressing complex moral and political dilemmas is highly regarded. The exploration of loyalty, justice, and the clash of personal beliefs with societal norms captivates readers. Antigone's unwavering courage and strength of character receive high praise. Nonetheless, some readers found the pacing of the play to be slow, and the language proved challenging, especially for those unaccustomed to classical literature.

Notwithstanding the mixed reviews, readers generally appreciate the insights into human nature and timeless themes found in both plays. The enduring relevance of Sophocles' narratives is often noted by readers, as they continue to provoke thought and raise profound questions about power, the pursuit of truth, and the consequences of one's actions.

While some readers may find the language and writing style challenging, those with an affinity for classical literature and Greek tragedy will find these plays to be compelling reads. The emotional depth of the characters and the exploration of profound themes make Sophocles' "Oedipus the King and Antigone" valuable additions to any literary collection. Whether contemplating the nature of fate, justice, or the ethics of civil disobedience, readers can appreciate Sophocles' skill in crafting thought-provoking narratives.

GreekTragedyClassics OedipusTheKing Antigone