Both in present times and in the times of the ancient Greeks, Sophocles' play Oedipus Tyrannus is considered the quintessential model of Greek tragedy. This is due to the complex questions of morality that are masterfully woven into the literature and the fact that "perhaps no classical Greek play has stimulated so much critical discussion" (Harris and Platzner Classical Mythology: Images and Insights, p. 648). One of the main arguments generated by the tragedy is whether Oedipus is responsible for the heinous crimes of parricide and incest. The answer is yes. To be human is to have a choice and it is evident throughout the play that Oedipus' reckless decisions are responsible for the violations committed against his parents. Because of Oedipus's choices regarding his interactions with the Oracle of Delphi, his shameful attack on a man on the road to Thebes, and especially his tolerance of stubborn pride and self-deception to eclipse the truth, make him solely responsible for his crimes. Introductory quotes? CHECK THE QUOTES!!!! And check how ideas flow and if I really answer the question correctly, Oedipus' response to the oracle's prophecy set him on the tumultuous path of brutally murdering his father and sharing a bed with his mother. In his youth, Oedipus went to the oracle of Apollo at Delphi in the hope of better understanding his own identity. This act of seeking answers is entirely Oedipus' choice. It is not chance that is governed by fate and his decision is the foundation of the gripping tragedy that will consume him (Harris and Platzner, Classical Mythology: Images and Insights, p.649). The news that the oracle delivers to Oedipus is catastrophic. He is told he will... middle of paper ... choices to ignore the truth rather than see reality are abundant. His choice to blame others for his wrongs and his arrogance make him responsible for his crimes. Sophocles' tragic play Oedipus Tyrannus induces catharsis in the audience and sparks a fascinating debate around the morality of Oedipus' crimes. It is often questioned whether Oedipus is truly responsible for the disgusting crimes of parricide and incest. Some may say that Oedipus was just an unfortunate victim of a cruel fate, but that would be a false assumption. It is clearly demonstrated throughout the play that a product of blind pride and deeply questionable choices makes Oedipus responsible for his crimes. Based on his dealings with the Oracle of Delphi and his actions during his trip to Thebes, it can be determined that Oedipus' terrible decisions make him undeniably responsible..