What Does Oedipus Tell His Daughters at the End of ‘Oedipus Rex’?

In the Greek tragedy ‘Oedipus Rex’ by Sophocles, the final moments of the play feature a poignant exchange between Oedipus, the central character, and his daughters, Antigone and Ismene. Oedipus, burdened by his own tragic fate, imparts his hopes and concerns to his children, offering them guidance for the future.

Praying for a Better Life

Oedipus starts by urging his daughters to pray fervently for a life that surpasses his own. Recognizing the gravity of his actions, including the unknowing incestuous marriage to his mother and the murder of his father, Oedipus acknowledges the burden of shame and guilt that his family carries. He expresses his genuine concern for his daughters’ well-being and their ability to overcome the consequences of his transgressions.

The Challenges They May Face

As both his children and his half-sisters, Oedipus understands the potential hardships that Antigone and Ismene may encounter due to their tainted lineage. He expresses his worry that society will not easily forget the tragic circumstances of their birth, which could lead to cruelty, isolation, poverty, and spinsterhood. Oedipus confronts the harsh reality that his daughters may face a difficult path ahead.

A Glimmer of Hope

Despite the challenges, Oedipus offers a glimmer of hope for his daughters. He advises them to seek the support and protection of their uncle, King Creon, who will serve as their guardian. Oedipus believes that with Creon’s guidance and their own positive attitude and behavior, his daughters can rise above their troubled origins. He encourages them to strive for a happier and more fortunate life, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and making the most of the opportunities available to them.

Conclusion

Oedipus’s final words to his daughters in ‘Oedipus Rex’ encapsulate a mix of remorse, concern, and optimism. He acknowledges the challenges they may face as a result of his own actions but encourages them to pray for a better life. Oedipus highlights the importance of seeking support, particularly from their uncle, and maintaining a positive outlook. His message reflects the enduring themes of fate, responsibility, and the human desire for a brighter future.

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FAQs

What does Oedipus ask his daughters to do at the end of ‘Oedipus Rex’?

Oedipus asks his daughters to pray for a better life for themselves, one that surpasses the difficulties and tragedies he has experienced.

What concerns does Oedipus express about his daughters’ lives?

Oedipus expresses concerns about the challenges his daughters may face due to their tainted lineage, including potential cruelty, isolation, poverty, and spinsterhood. He worries that society will not easily forget the circumstances of their birth.

What actions of Oedipus contribute to his concerns for his daughters?

Oedipus’s actions of unknowingly marrying his mother and killing his father contribute to his concerns for his daughters. These actions have brought shame and guilt upon his family, and he fears that his daughters may bear the consequences.

How does Oedipus envision a better life for his daughters?

Oedipus suggests that with the support and protection of their uncle, King Creon, and by maintaining the appropriate attitude and behavior, his daughters can overcome their troubled origins and lead happier and more fortunate lives.

What message does Oedipus want to convey to his daughters?



Oedipus wants to convey to his daughters that despite the challenges they may face, they should strive for a better life. He encourages them to seek support, remain positive, and make the most of the opportunities available to them.

How does Oedipus’s message reflect the themes of the play?

Oedipus’s message reflects the enduring themes of fate, responsibility, and the desire for a brighter future. It highlights the consequences of his actions and the impact they have on his daughters, as well as the potential for redemption and transcendence.

Why does Oedipus emphasize the role of King Creon?

Oedipus emphasizes the role of King Creon as his daughters’ guardian because he believes that Creon’s support and protection will be crucial for their well-being. Creon can provide guidance and help them navigate the challenges they may encounter.

What is the overall tone of Oedipus’s message to his daughters?

The overall tone of Oedipus’s message to his daughters is a mixture of remorse, concern, and optimism. He acknowledges the hardships they may face but encourages them to persevere and strive for a better life.

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