By telling Oedipus of the old rumors that suggest Laius was not killed by robbers but by a man at a crossroads, and that the murderer is still at large, the Chorus sets in motion a chain of events that leads to the unraveling of the tragic truth about Oedipus' past and his unwitting crimes of patricide and incest. Here's how this revelation affects the plot:
1. Oedipus' Curiosity Piqued:
Oedipus' curiosity is piqued by these rumors, and he becomes determined to uncover the truth about his past. This sets him on a path to investigate the circumstances of Laius' death, leading him to seek answers from various characters, including the seer Tiresias and the old shepherd who found him as a baby.
2. Building Suspense and Tension:
The revelation of the old rumors creates suspense and tension in the plot as the audience becomes aware that there is more to Oedipus' story than meets the eye. The Chorus' words hint at a dark secret that Oedipus is yet to discover, raising questions about his true identity and the fate of his parents.
3. Catalyst for Oedipus' Downfall:
The Chorus' revelation becomes the catalyst for Oedipus' downfall. As Oedipus digs deeper into the mystery, he unknowingly begins to uncover the truth about his own past and the prophecy that foretold his fate. The rumors set in motion a series of events that lead to the revelation of Oedipus' tragic destiny.
4. Tragic Irony:
The Chorus' words add an element of tragic irony to the plot. Oedipus, in his pursuit of the truth, unknowingly walks the path that leads to his own destruction. The audience is aware of the impending doom that awaits him, while Oedipus remains blissfully ignorant until the horrific truth is revealed.
5. Catharsis and Moral Insight:
The plot development that arises from the Chorus' revelation contributes to the play's themes of fate, free will, and human suffering. The tragic events that follow provide catharsis for the audience and offer moral insights into the consequences of one's actions and the limits of human knowledge and control over destiny.