Chorus

Chorus in Oedipus Rex

The Chorus in Sophocles' Oedipus Rex plays a multifaceted role, serving as a commentator, a moral guide, a reflection of societal norms, and a mediator between the characters and the audience. The Chorus is  composed of Theban elders. It provides context, heightens dramatic tension, and emphasizes the play's themes. The Chorus is essential in deepening the tragedy by revealing the inner turmoil and emotional landscape of the play and also for reflecting on the actions and fate of Oedipus and other characters. Bernard Knox comments in his regard that "The Chorus acts as an intermediary, making the profound and often mysterious events of the play accessible to the audience." 

1. Commentator and Interpreter of Events

The Chorus in Oedipus Rex functions as a commentator on the unfolding events. It provides the audience  a broader understanding of the context and implications of the actions of the main characters. Throughout the play, the Chorus interprets the events, providing insights into the moral and thematic elements of the tragedy. For example, in the Parodos, the Chorus expresses fear and anxiety about the plague ravaging Thebes and prays to the gods for deliverance:

"I am distraught with fearful wonderment,

I thrill with terror,  and wait reverently---

Yea, Io Paean, Delian lord, on thee!"

This passage demonstrates the Chorus’s role in reflecting the collective fear and despair of the Theban citizens.

2. Moral and Ethical Voice

The Chorus serves as the moral and ethical voice in the play. It reflects the values and beliefs of ancient Greek society. They comment on the virtues and flaws of the characters, especially Oedipus, and provide warnings about the dangers of hubris and the limits of human knowledge. For instance, after Oedipus’s confrontation with Creon, the Chorus advises moderation and humility:

"But if any man proceed

Insolently or deed,

Without fear of righ, or care

., Let evil death betide!”.

The Chorus's call for moderation reflects the ancient Greek belief in the importance of balance and caution in human actions, reminding both the characters and the audience of the moral lessons embedded in the narrative.

3. Emotional Resonance and Catharsis

The Chorus in Oedipus Rex enhances the emotional depth of the play by expressing feelings of fear, pity. The Chorus often reflects on the tragic events, amplifying the emotional impact of key moments and contributing to the catharsis that Aristotle deemed essential in tragedy. A. C. Bradley asserts that the Chorus’s role in evoking catharsis is crucial: "The Chorus deepens the emotional atmosphere of the tragedy, amplifying the audience's sense of loss, suffering, and the inescapable nature of fate".

 After Oedipus blinds himself and realizes the full extent of his fate, the Chorus laments the tragic downfall of the once-great king:

“Dwellers in Thebes, behold this Oedipus,

He man who solved the riddle marvellous,

A prince of men, whose lot that ciizn

Did not with envy see,

How deep the billows of calamity

Above him roll.”

This lament highlights the stark contrast between Oedipus's former glory and his current misery, evoking pity and fear. The Chorus helps the audience experience catharsis by articulating the emotional responses that the tragedy seeks to elicit.

4. Mediator Between the Audience and Characters

The Chorus often acts as a mediator between the audience and the characters, providing insights that bridge the gap between the two. The Chorus interacts with Oedipus, Jocasta, and other characters, serving as both confidants and commentators. Their dialogues with Oedipus often reveal his psychological state and foreshadow the tragic events to come. When Oedipus insists on uncovering the truth about his parentage despite the warnings, the Chorus tries to counsel him, reflecting both concern and helplessness:

5. Foreshadowing and Dramatic Irony

The Chorus often uses foreshadowing to build suspense and heighten the tragic irony in the play. Through their odes and commentary, they hint at the fate that awaits Oedipus, creating a sense of inevitability and dramatic tension. For instance, in the First Stasimon, the Chorus reflects on the power of the gods and the consequences of human pride, foreshadowing the revelation of Oedipus’s true identity:

"Pride is the germ of kings:

Pride when puffed up, vaniy with many hings

Unseasonable, upfitting, mounts the wall,

Only to hurry to that fatal fall..”

Summing up

The Chorus in Oedipus Rex plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative, themes, and emotional impact of the play. Through their words and actions, the Chorus embodies the collective conscience of Thebes and serves as a conduit for the audience’s engagement with the tragedy’s profound themes.