Oedipus at Colonus by Sophocles depicts the end of Oedipus's life after his banishment, as he seeks refuge in Colonus with his daughter Antigone. He reveals Apollo's prophecy that he will die in a land sacred to the Furies and bring blessings to his final resting place. As various characters, including his other daughter Ismene and King Theseus of Athens, interact with him, Oedipus faces political manipulation, familial strife, and ultimately, his death in a divine manner. Themes include patricide, incest, and death.

<Sophocles' Oedipus at Colonus> is widely praised for its exploration of fate and redemption, showcasing Sophocles' mastery in tragic storytelling. Critics admire its emotional depth and moral complexity. Some, however, find the pacing slow and the dialogue dense, posing challenges for modern readers. Overall, it's a compelling conclusion to the Oedipus saga.

A reader who enjoys Sophocles' Oedipus at Colonus is likely interested in Greek tragedy, moral dilemmas, and themes of fate and redemption. Fans of Homeric epics like The Iliad or Aeschylus' Oresteia will appreciate the dramatic narrative and profound philosophical questions raised.

Contemplative / Mysterious / Melancholic / Emotional

- Oedipus at Colonus is one of the last plays written by Sophocles, and it was produced posthumously in 401 BC, adding a unique historical context to its performance.
- The play is set in the sacred village of Colonus, which is notably the birthplace of Sophocles, establishing a personal connection between the playwright and the setting of his work.
- Oedipus’s transformation in Oedipus at Colonus reflects a theme of redemption and reconciliation, which shifts the story's focus from his tragic past to a more philosophical and spiritual resolution.

**Oedipus**  
The exiled king of Thebes, who arrives in Athens with his daughter Antigone, seeking sanctuary and fulfillment of a prophecy.

**Antigone**  
Oedipus’s devoted daughter and sister who accompanies him during his exile, participates in rituals, and displays strong familial loyalty.

**Ismene**  
Antigone's sister, who also comes to Athens with news of a prophecy and assists in fulfilling her family and religious duties.

**Theseus**  
The king of Athens who welcomes Oedipus, defends him from adversaries, and is entrusted with important knowledge by Oedipus.

**Chorus and Chorus Leader**  
Made up of the elders of the precinct, they guide and advise Oedipus, reflecting communal and divine aspects of Greek society.

**Creon**  
Jocasta’s brother who comes to Athens with the intention of returning Oedipus to Thebes using persuasive and forceful tactics.

**Polyneices**  
Oedipus’s elder son, who seeks his father’s approval for a campaign against Thebes and faces familial conflict.

**Attendant**  
A character who narrates the final moments of Oedipus, facilitating the portrayal of events that occur offstage.

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Prologue-Choral Song 1

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