Oedipus

Style and Technique

The tragedy «Oedipus» by Seneca is written in the style of Roman tragedy, which differs from the Greek original with a more philosophical and rhetorical approach. Seneca uses complex metaphors and imagery to emphasize the characters' inner turmoil and the tragedy of the situation. The language of the work is rich with rhetorical figures such as antitheses and parallelisms, giving the text dramatic expressiveness. The structure of the tragedy follows the classical model with a prologue, parodos, episodes, and exodus. A notable feature is the use of the chorus, which comments on and interprets events, enhancing the emotional impact on the audience. Seneca focuses on Oedipus's psychological state, his fears, and doubts, making the tragedy deeply personal and philosophical. The use of monologues is also characteristic, revealing the inner world of the characters and their moral dilemmas.