Oedipus

Historical Context and Significance

The tragedy «Oedipus» by Seneca, written in the 1st century AD, is a Roman adaptation of the Greek myth of Oedipus, the king of Thebes, who unknowingly kills his father and marries his mother. This play is an important part of Roman literature and demonstrates the influence of Greek tragedy on Roman culture. Seneca, being a Stoic philosopher, uses the tragedy to explore themes of fate, guilt, and human frailty. His version differs from Greek predecessors like Sophocles by adopting a more philosophical approach and focusing on the internal experiences of the characters. Seneca's influence on European drama was significant, especially during the Renaissance, when his works inspired playwrights such as Shakespeare and Racine. The tragedy «Oedipus» by Seneca also contributes to the understanding of the Roman interpretation of Greek myths and their adaptation within the context of Roman culture and philosophy.