Oedipus

Interesting Facts

• The tragedy «Oedipus» by Seneca is one of the few surviving Roman tragedies written in the 1st century AD.
• Seneca adapted the myth of Oedipus, previously depicted in Sophocles' tragedy, adding elements characteristic of Roman culture and Stoic philosophy.
• Unlike Sophocles' version, Seneca's tragedy places more emphasis on the internal struggles and psychological state of the main character, making it darker and more philosophical.
• The tragedy begins with a monologue by Oedipus, in which he expresses his fears and doubts, creating a tense atmosphere from the outset.
• Seneca uses the chorus to express philosophical and moral reflections, adding depth to the work and prompting the audience to ponder fate and responsibility.
• In Seneca's work, the focus is on the inevitability of fate and the limitations of human will, which is an important theme in Stoic philosophy.
• Seneca's tragedy had a significant impact on the development of European drama, especially during the Renaissance, when its adaptations and translations became popular.