What action does Oedipus take after the truth is revealed to him?

Study for the Oedipus Rex test. Master the themes, symbols, and character arcs with comprehensive flashcards and detailed multiple choice questions, each with insightful explanations. Prepare effectively for your upcoming exam!

After the truth is revealed to Oedipus—that he has unwittingly killed his father and married his mother—his response is one of intense horror and despair. He recognizes the magnitude of his tragic fate and the irreversible nature of his actions. In this overwhelming emotional state, he ultimately blinds himself as a form of punishment and despair, leading to the interpretation that he takes his own life. This act symbolizes his attempt to escape the unbearable reality of his actions and the shame that accompanies them.

Moreover, this tragic response aligns with the themes of fate and tragic downfall central to the play, illustrating Oedipus's recognition of his role in the prophecy that he tried so hard to avoid. The gravity of his decisions and the consequences they bring lead him to this irreversible and tragic conclusion.

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