The Role of Chorus in Oedipus Rex
In Greek tragedy, chorus plays
inevitable part and Greek tragedy is incomplete without participation of
chorus. Aristotle says that chorus should be like one of the characters. The
functions of the chorus are numerous in ancient classical tragedies. Typically,
every Greek tragedy begins with the entry of chorus same like it ends with the
final song sung by the chorus. Chorus represents the view of a dramatist.
The play ‘Oedipus Rex’ opens with the
entry of chorus. In the first scene of prologue, the chorus projects the catastrophe
of Thebes, appreciates the attitude of king Oedipus and the message that has
been brought by the oracle of Delphi. In the rest of the play, the chorus
criticizes and comments on the actions of the play.
Chorus plays the role of a
peace-maker when there goes a hot discussion between king Oedipus and Creon and
is successful in winning pardon for the latter. Chorus is a wise person and a
loyal to king Oedipus. When Tiresias departs after revealing the truth, Chorus
comments on the horrors of prediction but is determined and takes the side of
the king.
The most significance response of
chorus is seen at the time when king Oedipus and Jocaste show irreverent thoughts
against oracles. When Oedipus says that he is the son of goodness of luck,
chorus sings that Oedipus is the son of Apollo himself. The fifth and final ode
of the chorus is somewhat controversial. This ode should never be considered as
the final impression of the play. Oedipus is heroic like even after his
decline.
The chorus takes part in the
conversation with other characters of the play. When the king consults with
chorus about the ending of prevailing plague, the chorus comments that Oracles
might have given them any clue for tracking king Laius’ murderer, Oedipus
replies that it is not possible to make a god speak more than his will. When
Creon is labeled with treason charges by king Oedipus, Creon consults with
Chorus who opines that king might have said this in anger.
In a scene of the play, when there
goes a hot discussion between Oedipus and Creon, Queen Jocaste comes there and
she consults with Choragos. They request her to settle the difference between
the two. It is clear that chorus does never take part direct in any action of
the play but influences the action in various subtle ways.
The contribution of the Chorus in the
play is wonderful. They are ideal spectators, peace-maker, influencer and
commentator. The importance of the role of chorus cannot be denied. It plays a
vital role in ancient Greek tragic plays.
No comments:
Post a Comment