The first part of King Oedipus serves to establish the play's setting and creates the tone for the tragic events that unfold. It gives the audience an understanding of Thebes and its current state, plagued by a mysterious plague that has devastated the city.
Exposition and Character Introduction:
It introduces the main characters, particularly Oedipus, the ruler of Thebes, and provides the necessary exposition for understanding the conflicts and dilemmas he will face. The audience learns about Oedipus's rise to power and his marriage to Jocasta.
Building Suspense and Foreshadowing:
Through the prophecies and warnings received from the oracle at Delphi, the play establishes a sense of impending doom and foreshadows the tragic events to come. This increases the dramatic tension and raises questions about fate, destiny, and human actions.
Highlighting Oedipus's Character Traits:
The first part of the play reveals important traits of Oedipus's character, including his sense of justice, determination, and pride. These traits set up the protagonist's journey and contribute to the tragic consequences that follow.
Creating Audience Empathy and Catharsis:
The audience begins to empathize with Oedipus as he investigates the cause of the plague with sincerity and compassion for his people. The play lays the groundwork for the emotional impact of the eventual revelations and Oedipus's downfall.
Overall, the dramatic purpose of the first part of King Oedipus is to establish the necessary context, build suspense and anticipation, introduce key characters, and highlight the traits that shape Oedipus's fate. It serves as a prologue to the tragic events that follow, setting the stage for the protagonist's journey and the exploration of themes such as fate, suffering, and the limitations of human knowledge.