1. Fate Itself:
>In the context of the play, Fate seems to be an omnipotent and unavoidable force that guides events. From the prophecies surrounding Oedipus's birth to his tragic downfall, Fate appears to be the ultimate orchestrator of his destiny.
2. The Gods:
>The gods, particularly Apollo and Tiresias, are often regarded as the ones who foresee and declare the prophecies that shape Oedipus's life. They possess knowledge beyond human comprehension and dictate the course of events. Some may hold the gods accountable for the tragic destiny that befalls Oedipus.
3. Human Frailty:
>Oedipus, while unknowingly acting in accordance with Fate's decree, displays human flaws that contribute to his tragic downfall. His pride, curiosity, and hasty decision-making play a significant role in the revelation of his fate. Therefore, some may argue that Oedipus's choices and actions bear a degree of responsibility for the tragic outcome.
4. Parental Actions:
>The actions and decisions of Oedipus's parents, King Laius and Queen Jocasta, contribute to the chain of events that lead to Oedipus's tragic destiny. Their choice to abandon their son and the manipulations to thwart the prophecy could be seen as setting in motion the tragic fate that unfolds.
5. Ignorance and Free Will:
>Despite the prophecies, Oedipus exercises some degree of free will in his pursuit of the truth. His determination to uncover the truth, even in the face of warnings, could be seen as his choice in shaping his fate. In this sense, some may view Oedipus's actions as both influenced by Fate and shaped by his own decision-making.
In essence, the question of blame in Oedipus The King is subject to interpretation and invites consideration of various factors, including Fate's role, the actions of individuals, the influence of the gods, and the human condition.