What does the character Oedipa Maas investigate in Thomas Pynchon's "The Crying of Lot 49"?

The character Oedipa Maas investigates a mail distribution rivalry in Thomas Pynchon's "The Crying of Lot 49." This investigation stems from her role as the executor of the estate of her ex-lover, Pierce Inverarity. As she delves into the complex and often absurd world of postal systems, Oedipa uncovers a vast conspiracy involving a secret communication network, known as Tristero. This network challenges her understanding of communication and the nature of reality itself, thereby weaving themes of paranoia, ambiguity, and the search for meaning throughout the narrative. Pynchon's intricate portrayal of the postal system serves as a metaphor for how information is distributed and perceived in society, making Oedipa's investigation a deeper commentary on communication and its implications.

The other options do not align with the primary focus of Oedipa's journey. A love affair, the history of fairy tales, or the impact of the Great Fire are not central to her character's exploration and do not address the main thematic elements presented in the novel.