Sophocles: Oedipus the King

by Patrick Finglass (Translator)

For centuries the myth of Oedipus, the man who unwittingly killed his father and married his mother, has exerted a powerful hold on the human imagination; but no retelling of that myth has ever come close, in passion, drama, and menace to the one that we find in Sophocles' Oedipus the King. This new full-scale edition of that classic play - the first in any language since 1883 - offers a freshly constituted text based on consultation of manuscripts ancient and mediaeval. The Introduction explores the play's dating and production, its creative engagement with pre-Sophoclean versions, its major themes, and its reception during antiquity. The Commentary offers a detailed analysis, line by line and scene by scene, of the play's language, staging, and dramatic impact. The translation incorporated into the commentary ensures that the book will be accessible to all readers interested in what is arguably the greatest Greek tragedy of all.

720 pages, Hardcover

Published April 30, 2018

Reviews

[Jes Drew · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, it was definitely a tragedy. I knew what happened going in, but that didn't make it any less viscerally moving or disturbing. It had really great quotes and an interesting theme from a pagan perspective.

[Ashley Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

Much easier read than anticipated. Gave me much to think about a man’s true control over his own fate and his destiny. Did Oedipus, because of the fear and choices of his parents lead to the prophecy coming true or was it always meant to happen? Self-fulfilling or inevitable? Greek tragedies always captivate and I’m happy I’ve had the chance to read Sophocles’ work.

[Corydon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Informative commentary. It rather surprises me that the Chorus' famous lament at the end of exodus is probably a fake one.