Which word describes a feeling of unease due to guilt?

The term that describes a feeling of unease due to guilt is "compunction." This word captures the emotional experience that individuals often have when they recognize that their actions have caused harm or fallen short of their moral standards. In the context of "Oedipus Rex," this notion ties closely to the character's realization of his tragic flaws and the consequences of his actions, leading to feelings of guilt and regret.

Compunction is often associated with a moral conscience that prompts an individual to feel remorse for past deeds, urging them to seek atonement or change their behavior. This aligns with the themes in "Oedipus Rex," where characters grapple with their fateful decisions and the resulting guilt that plagues them as the truth of their circumstances unfolds.

The other options do not convey this specific sense of guilt. "Compulsion" refers to an irresistible urge to behave in a certain way, "exemption" relates to freedom from an obligation or liability, and "supplication" implies a humble plea or request, often directed towards a higher power. Each of these terms addresses different concepts that do not encapsulate the complex feelings associated with guilt and unease.