Oedipus facts for kids
Oedipus is a famous character from Greek mythology. He is known as a king in the ancient city of Thebes. His story is a well-known myth that teaches about fate and destiny.
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Who Was Oedipus?
Oedipus is a central figure in many Greek stories. He is often remembered for solving a difficult riddle. This riddle was posed by a scary monster called the Sphinx. His life story is full of unexpected twists and turns.
His Early Life
Oedipus's story began with a prophecy. A prophecy is like a prediction about the future. This prophecy said that he would cause trouble for his parents. To try and avoid this, his parents decided to leave him as a baby. They hoped this would change his destiny.
A New Home
However, the baby Oedipus was found by a shepherd. The shepherd took him to a faraway kingdom. There, Oedipus was adopted by the king and queen. He grew up believing they were his real parents. He lived a happy life for many years.
The Sphinx's Riddle
As a young man, Oedipus left his adopted home. He traveled towards the city of Thebes. On his journey, he met a terrifying creature. This creature was the Sphinx. The Sphinx had the body of a lion and the head of a human. It guarded the entrance to Thebes.
Solving the Mystery
The Sphinx would ask a riddle to anyone who passed by. If they could not answer, it would attack them. Many people had tried and failed. The riddle was: "What walks on four feet in the morning, two feet at noon, and three feet in the evening?" Oedipus thought carefully. He gave the correct answer: "A human." Humans crawl as babies, walk on two legs as adults, and use a cane in old age.
Becoming King
When Oedipus solved the riddle, the Sphinx was defeated. The people of Thebes were very grateful. They had been suffering because of the monster. As a reward, they made Oedipus their new king. He married the queen of Thebes, who was a widow.
Life as King
Oedipus ruled Thebes fairly for many years. He was a good and wise king. He had four children with the queen. Their names were Antigone, Polynices, Ismene, and Eteocles. The city prospered under his rule.
The Truth Revealed
Later, a terrible plague struck Thebes. A plague is a widespread disease. Oedipus wanted to save his people. He searched for the cause of the plague. During his search, he uncovered a shocking truth. He learned that the prophecy from his birth had come true. He had unknowingly fulfilled it.
Oedipus's Fate
When Oedipus understood the full truth, he was heartbroken. He could not bear what he had discovered. In his despair, he blinded himself. He felt he could not look upon the world after such events.
Exile and Legacy
Oedipus then left Thebes. He went into exile, meaning he left his home forever. His loyal daughter, Antigone, went with him. She guided him on his journey. The story of Oedipus has been told for thousands of years. It is a famous tragedy by the ancient Greek writer Sophocles, called Oedipus the King.
Images for kids
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Detail of ancient fresco in which Oedipus solves the riddle of the Sphinx. Egyptian Museum, 2nd c. CE
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Oedipus at Colonus
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The blind Oedipus led by his daughter Antigone
