Sophocles, the Oedipus Cycle: Oedipus Rex, Oedipus at Colonus, Antigone

by Fitts, Dudley (Translator); Fitzgerald, Robert (Translator); Sophocles (Author)

• ISBN13: 9780156027649
• ISBN10: 015602764X
• Additional ISBN(s): 9780156838382
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2002-11-01
• Publisher: HARPER
• More Book Details

About This Book

Sophocles, The Oedipus Cycle: Oedipus Rex, Oedipus at Colonus, Antigone

The Sophocles, The Oedipus Cycle is a timeless collection of tragedies that continues to captivate audiences with its profound exploration of human nature and fate. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in classical Greek literature and the enduring themes of tragedy.

Who Uses It?

Primarily, this book is used by students and educators in introductory courses on classical literature, drama, and mythology. It's also a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the ancient Greek tragedies and their relevance to modern society. Whether you're a literature enthusiast, a student of drama, or simply someone who appreciates the classics, this book offers a rich and thought-provoking experience.

History and Editions

The Oedipus Cycle has been a cornerstone of classical literature for centuries. The translations by Dudley Fitts and Robert Fitzgerald, which are featured in this edition, have been widely acclaimed for their clarity and poetic style. This particular edition, published in 2002, provides a modern audience with an accessible and engaging translation of Sophocles' original works. The book chronicles the tragic downfall of the royal family of Thebes through three plays: Oedipus Rex, Oedipus at Colonus, and Antigone.

Author and Other Works

Sophocles (c. 496/497 BCE – c. 406 BCE) was an ancient Greek tragedian who is considered one of the greatest playwrights of all time. His works include "Oedipus Rex," "Oedipus at Colonus," "Antigone," "Electra," "Philoctetes," and "The Women of Trachis." Sophocles' plays are renowned for their complex characters, intricate plots, and profound exploration of human nature.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Coverage: The book provides a detailed exploration of the Oedipus myth, covering themes such as fate, hubris, and redemption.
• Timeless Themes: The plays continue to resonate with modern audiences due to their universal themes and complex characters.
• Accessible Translation: The Fitts and Fitzgerald translation makes Sophocles' works accessible to a broad audience while maintaining the original poetic style.
• Educational Value: This book is an essential resource for students of classical literature, drama, and mythology, offering insights into the development of Western drama and the enduring power of ancient Greek tragedy.

Detailed Information

ISBNs and Formats

• ISBN-13: 9780156027649
• ISBN-10: 015602764X

Publication Details

• Publisher: Mariner Books
• Release Date: 2002
• Number of Pages: N/A (varies by edition)
• Language: English

Other Editions and Formats

While this specific edition is widely available, it's worth noting that there may be other translations or adaptations of Sophocles' works. Here are some related ISBNs for different formats:

• eBook: Available through various retailers (ISBN: varies)
• Hardcover: Not available for this specific edition
• Paperback: Available through various retailers (ISBN: varies)

Related ISBNs:

• 9780156027649 (Paperback)
• 9780156027656 (eBook) - Note: This may not be an exact match, but it indicates availability in digital formats.

Rental Options:

This book is available for rental through various retailers, including eCampus.com. Rental durations vary, making it convenient for students and educators to access the book for a semester, quarter, or short term.

By providing this detailed information, we aim to enhance the user experience on eCampus.com by offering a comprehensive overview of the book's content, author, and availability in different formats.

Author Biography

Dudley Fitts (1903-1968), a renowned poet, critic and translator, authored and translated over 20 books. One of the preeminent twentieth century scholars of Greek literature, his English translations of the ancient Greek classics are much praised for their accessibility and their appeal to contemporary readers.

Table of Contents

Oedipus Rex	1	(82)
Oedipus at Colonus	82	(104)
Antigone	186	(67)
Index of Names	253