The Riddle of the Sphinx: Oedipus' Triumph

Oedipus and the Sphinx, a painting by Gustave Moreau, depicts a significant moment in Greek mythology where Oedipus encounters the Sphinx on the road outside Thebes. This article explores the symbolism and themes portrayed in the painting, as well as its historical context.

The Encounter

In Moreau’s painting, Oedipus is faced with the challenge of answering the Sphinx’s riddle correctly in order to pass. The riddle posed by the Sphinx is as follows: “What walks on four feet in the morning, two in the afternoon, and three at night?”

Oedipus, demonstrating his intelligence and insight, answers the riddle correctly by stating that the answer is “Man.” This revelation astounds the Sphinx, who is unable to comprehend how a mere mortal could solve her enigmatic riddle.

Unexpectedly, the Sphinx reacts by throwing herself into the sea, ending her own life. This act of self-destruction is a pivotal moment in the story, as it marks Oedipus’ triumph over the Sphinx and paves the way for his subsequent liberation.

The Consequences

Oedipus’ victory over the Sphinx brings about significant consequences. It secures his freedom and also ensures the liberation of the Thebans from the Sphinx’s oppressive reign. However, the story takes a tragic turn as Oedipus proceeds to marry Jocasta, who is later revealed to be his mother.

The Artistic Style

Gustave Moreau’s painting deliberately deviates from the prevailing realism and naturalism of the mid-nineteenth century. Instead, he adopts a deliberately archaic painting style, reminiscent of ancient Greek art, to capture the mythological subject matter.

The Symbolism

Moreau’s version of “Oedipus and the Sphinx” portrays the Sphinx on the offensive, clawing at Oedipus, creating a sense of uncertainty about the outcome of the encounter. This depiction can be interpreted as a representation of the battle between good and evil, as well as the battle between the sexes.

The Reception

When exhibited at the French Salon of 1864, “Oedipus and the Sphinx” garnered immediate success. The painting resonated with the audience, captivated by Moreau’s skillful portrayal of the mythological narrative and the tension within the scene.

Conclusion

Gustave Moreau’s painting “Oedipus and the Sphinx” captures a crucial moment in Greek mythology. The painting symbolizes Oedipus’ triumph over the Sphinx, his subsequent liberation, and the tragic consequences that unfold. Its deliberate departure from realism and naturalism, coupled with its intense symbolism, has solidified its place as an iconic artwork housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Sources

FAQs

What is the significance of the painting “Oedipus and the Sphinx” by Gustave Moreau?

The painting “Oedipus and the Sphinx” by Gustave Moreau depicts a pivotal moment in Greek mythology where Oedipus encounters the Sphinx on the road outside Thebes. It symbolizes Oedipus’ triumph over the Sphinx and his subsequent liberation.

What is the riddle that the Sphinx poses to Oedipus in the painting?

The riddle posed by the Sphinx in the painting is: “What walks on four feet in the morning, two in the afternoon, and three at night?”

How does Oedipus answer the Sphinx’s riddle?

Oedipus correctly answers the Sphinx’s riddle by stating that the answer is “Man.” This demonstrates his intelligence and insight into the nature of human existence.

Why does the Sphinx react by throwing herself into the sea?

The Sphinx, astounded by Oedipus’ correct answer to the riddle, inexplicably chooses to end her own life by throwing herself into the sea. This act marks Oedipus’ triumph over the Sphinx and signifies his freedom.

What are the consequences of Oedipus’ victory over the Sphinx?

Oedipus’ victory over the Sphinx leads to his subsequent marriage to Jocasta, who is later revealed to be his mother. This revelation brings about tragic consequences in the story.

How does Gustave Moreau’s painting deviate from the artistic style of the time?

Gustave Moreau intentionally rejects the prevailing realism and naturalism of the mid-nineteenth century in his painting. Instead, he adopts a deliberately archaic painting style reminiscent of ancient Greek art to capture the mythological subject matter.

What is the symbolism behind Moreau’s portrayal of the Sphinx and Oedipus?

Moreau’s version of the painting portrays the Sphinx on the offensive, clawing at Oedipus, creating a sense of uncertainty about the outcome of the encounter. This depiction can be interpreted as a representation of the battle between good and evil, as well as the battle between the sexes.

Where is the painting “Oedipus and the Sphinx” currently housed?

The painting “Oedipus and the Sphinx” by Gustave Moreau is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art.