What does Oedipus feel when he realizes the truth of his actions?

When Oedipus uncovers the devastating truth of his actions, he experiences an overwhelming sense of being damned. This realization is deeply tied to the tragic elements of the play, as Oedipus comes to understand that he has not only killed his father but has also married his mother, fulfilling the very prophecy he sought to escape.

His feelings are marked by horror, despair, and a profound sense of guilt. This moment leads him to recognize the extent of his tragic fate and the implications of his ignorance and hubris. The weight of his actions crushes any previous sense of pride or confidence he may have had. Instead of celebrating any newfound understanding, he is consumed by the hopelessness of his situation, which aligns with the overarching themes of fate and tragedy in the play. The culmination of his journey is not one of enlightenment or relief; rather, it plunges him into a darker recognition of his place within the inescapable web of destiny.