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What are the Oedipus plays?

The Oedipus plays refer to a trilogy of tragedies written by the ancient Greek playwright Sophocles. They are considered some of the most influential and celebrated works in Western literature. The trilogy comprises the following three plays:

1. Oedipus Rex (Oedipus the King): This play tells the story of Oedipus, the unwitting murderer of his father and husband of his mother. The play explores themes of fate, prophecy, and the search for truth amidst a web of deception.

2. Oedipus at Colonus: In this sequel to Oedipus Rex, the aging and exiled Oedipus finds refuge in the town of Colonus. The play delves into themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the complexities of human nature.

3. Antigone: The final play of the trilogy follows Antigone, the daughter of Oedipus, as she defies the law of the land to give her brother a proper burial. The play raises questions of individual conscience versus state power, loyalty, and the limits of justice.

Collectively, the Oedipus plays provide a profound examination of human frailty, the consequences of one's actions, and the struggle against fate and the gods. Sophocles' masterful storytelling, character development, and exploration of universal human experiences have made these plays enduring classics that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.

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