king oedipus

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Definition

Proper noun 1. A tragic king in Greek mythology: The central figure of the Theban myths, who unknowingly fulfills a prophecy by killing his father, Laius, and marrying his mother, Jocasta. His story is the subject of Sophocles' tragic plays, most famously Oedipus Rex.

Usage Examples
  • Proper noun:
    • The story of King Oedipus explores themes of fate, free will, and self-discovery.
    • In the play, King Oedipus seeks the murderer of the previous king, only to discover it was himself.
Advanced Usage
  • "Oedipus complex": In Freudian psychoanalytic theory, a term derived from the myth, describing a child's feelings of desire for the opposite-sex parent and rivalry with the same-sex parent.
    • The psychologist discussed the concept of the Oedipus complex during the lecture.
Variants and Related Words
  • Oedipus Rex (proper noun): The Latin title, meaning "Oedipus the King," specifically referring to Sophocles' play.
    • We are studying Oedipus Rex in my literature class.
  • Oedipal (adjective): Pertaining to the myth of Oedipus or the Oedipus complex.
    • The film has strong Oedipal themes.
Synonyms
  • Theban king: A descriptive synonym referencing his rule over Thebes.
  • Son of Laius and Jocasta: A synonym identifying him by his parentage.
Related Phrases
  • Oedipus at Colonus: Refers to another play by Sophocles about the later years and death of Oedipus.
    • His final acts are chronicled in Oedipus at Colonus.
  • Swollen-footed: A literal translation of the name "Oedipus," alluding to the injury from his infancy when his ankles were pinned.
    • The name Oedipus itself means "swollen foot."
Noun
  1. (Greek mythology) a tragic king of Thebes who unknowingly killed his father Laius and married his mother Jocasta; the subject of the drama `Oedipus Rex' by Sophocles