603. Greek Myths: The Riddle of the Sphinx (Part 2)

In this episode of "The Rest Is History," Dominic and Tom delve into the tragic story of Oedipus, beginning with Homer's account and then focusing on Sophocles' famous tragedy, Oedipus Rex. They discuss the play's plot, characters, and its historical context within 5th century BC Athens, highlighting the themes of fate, free will, and the relationship between gods and mortals. The hosts explore how Sophocles' work reflects the political tensions of Athens, particularly its rivalry with Thebes, and examine the deeper emotional and philosophical questions raised by the myth. They also touch on Freud's interpretation of Oedipus and its cultural impact, setting the stage for a discussion on Euripides' "The Bacchae" in the next episode.