1. Hamartia (Flaw): Oedipus' tragic flaw is his excessive pride and curiosity. He is too quick to act and too slow to question his own assumptions, which ultimately lead to his downfall.
2. Peripeteia (Reversal): The pivotal moment of the play occurs when Oedipus discovers the truth about his identity and his relationship with Jocasta. This reversal of fortune is unexpected and disastrous for Oedipus.
3. Anagnorisis (Recognition): As Oedipus uncovers the truth about his past, he comes to a deeper understanding of himself and his actions. This recognition of his tragic fate is a key element of his tragedy.
4. Catharsis (Purification): Through the emotional journey of the play, the audience experiences a sense of catharsis, which is a purging of emotions such as pity and fear. Oedipus' suffering and downfall evoke these emotions in the audience, leading to a sense of cleansing and purification.
5. Hubris and Fate: Oedipus' tragic downfall is also tied to his hubris, or excessive pride, which leads him to believe that he can escape the fate predicted by the oracle. This conflict between human agency and divine fate is a central theme of the tragedy.
Overall, Oedipus' character embodies the qualities of a tragic hero, making him a compelling and iconic figure in classical Greek literature and tragedy.