Determinism is based on the notion that all events are predetermined, without influence from human actions. If this is true, we can imply that people do not have free will and therefore are not responsible for their actions. In Oedipus the King, we see that the dichotomy between fate and free will is blurred by the hyperbole of events, which can make it difficult, but possible, to determine whether humans actually have free will. Through Oedipus's flaws and decisions and Sophocles' use of imagery of a crossroads, it is evident that free will can be exercised in meaningful ways. The play opens and we immediately see parallels with the beginning of Oedipus' overconfident ego, and subsequently the beginning of his downfall. Creon returns with news of the oracle and suggests that Oedipus hear it privately, but Oedipus, in his proud glory, insists on hearing the news publicly. Upon hearing the news, he rushes to find Laius's murderer and even blames the city for not caring more. Oedipus is unable to see how his past actions directly influence the present situation. This blindness contributes to his vehement and unwavering decision to exile the murderer, even though he is a member of the royal family. Thus, it is Oedipus, and not fate, who is responsible for his choice to exile himself to a murderer and make him known to the public. As the play progresses, we see Oedipus continuing to exercise his free will, but his character intervenes in a way that encourages his failure. He summons Tiresias because he is seeking the truth about Laius' death, except that Tiresias is reluctant to tell Oedipus. Naturally, Oedipus accuses Teiresias and forces him to divulge the information. Oedipus' angry pride again appears as a tragic flaw because the result of his behavior...... middle of article ......to assess the presence of free will, he simply lets it open to the reader's interpretation. Overall, Sophocles provides a complex and impractical exposition of the interplay between determinism and free will. Given Oedipus's character flaws and the imagery of a crossroads, it can be determined that humans have a significant degree of free will. They are capable of creating change in their lives that is not premeditated; it’s part of the human condition. We are not on the strict path of destiny. For the Greeks and for the purposes of this piece, fate is an important factor, and its contrast with free will allows us to highlight a significant aspect of humanity. Our free will allows us to make mistakes and correct our mistakes. This allows us to develop as individuals and make choices for ourselves, but with a higher power in mind. Works Cited Sophocles, Oedipus the King