Oedipus's downfall

TO WHAT EXTENT IS OEDIPUS RESPONSIBLE FOR HIS OWN DOWNFALL? In the story of King Oedipus, written by Sophocles, to judge Oedipus one must look at the events in the play as they occurred and look at how Oedipus reacts and takes action according to the turn of events. Doing this will show that the character, Oedipus, is only partially responsible for bringing about the disastrous fate that was predicted for him at birth. The …

…Greatest of men; he held the key to the deepest mysteries; Was envied by all his fellow-men for his great prosperity; Behold, what a full tide of misfortune swept over his head. Then learn that mortal man must always look to his ending, And none can be called happy until that day when he carries His happiness down to the grave." This story is a classic example of not being able to avoid one's destiny.