Fate and Prophecy: The gods, particularly Apollo and Tiresias, play a crucial role in revealing the tragic fate of Oedipus and the prophecy surrounding him. Apollo's oracle foretells that Oedipus will kill his father and marry his mother, setting the stage for the unfolding tragedy.
Divine Intervention: The gods intervene directly in the lives of the characters. Apollo sends a plague upon Thebes as punishment for the city's pollution, and the gods manipulate events to bring about the fulfillment of the prophecy.
Oedipus' Blindness: Oedipus' tragic downfall is partially attributed to his hubris and ignorance of the gods' will. His refusal to accept the truth and his arrogance toward the gods contribute to his downfall.
Divine Justice: The gods are presented as enforcers of divine justice. They punish those who defy their will and seek to disrupt the natural order, as seen with Oedipus' tragic fate.
Moral Lessons: The play explores broader moral lessons and the consequences of human actions. Through the characters' interactions with the gods, the story emphasizes the importance of humility, self-awareness, and respect for divine authority.
Overall, the Greek gods in "Oedipus the King" serve as powerful, external forces that shape the characters' lives and drive the tragic events of the play. Their involvement highlights the interplay between human actions, divine intervention, and the consequences that arise from desafiying the gods.