What character trait does Oedipus struggle with throughout Oedipus Rex?

Prepare for the Praxis Literary Texts and Authors Exam using flashcards and multiple-choice questions, with hints and explanations. Ace your test!

Oedipus struggles primarily with overconfidence throughout "Oedipus Rex." This trait manifests in his strong belief in his ability to decipher the truth and to control his fate, which ultimately leads to his downfall. His confidence enhances his determination to solve the mystery of King Laius's murder and to rid Thebes of the plague, yet it blinds him to the warnings and signs that indicate he is, in fact, the murderer he seeks. This hubris prevents him from heeding the guidance of others, particularly the blind prophet Teiresias, who tries to direct him toward the truth. Oedipus’s overconfidence not only contributes to his tragic fate but also serves as a central theme in the play, illustrating the danger of excessive pride and the limits of human understanding in the face of fate and destiny.

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