Sophocles Journal #1

Setting is a key point in understanding this work, as well as key to comparing it to other works. It is set in ancient Greece, a time when people relied heavily on their god's and leaders of society were prominent. The cultural influence of theses aspects will be a critical point in the understanding of this play and in the comparison to other works. In the opening scenes of this play, it seems that peoples lives are dictated by the gods and the gods have an immense pull on the society. The leader, Oedipus, is almost elevated to a god like position but remains second in command to the gods. However, Oedipus is a strong leader and when not having utmost god powers, he is a sort of intercessor between the people and the gods. Oedipus is prominent in the play and a key point will be to follow his character as it is developed thought the play. It is my prediction that the transformation of Odipus, whatever that may be, will be a key part to a main theme of the play. As of now. Odipus is a strong, prominent and courageous leader who the people look up to.