The Symbolism of Oedipus Calling Himself the "Child of Chance"
What does Oedipus mean when he declares himself the "child of chance"? Why is this an example of dramatic irony?
His life has been ruled by chance and fortune. Oedipus believes he has experienced good fortune because he was an abandoned child who has since become a king. This is ironic because Oedipus' life has not been ruled by good fortune, but by cruel fate.
Explanation:
Final answer: Oedipus calling himself a 'child of chance' implies he believes his life is shaped by random events rather than destiny. Yet, unknown to him, he's actually the son of King Laius and Queen Jocasta and has fulfilled a terrible prophecy - which is an example of dramatic irony.
Explanation:
When Oedipus refers to himself as a "child of chance", he is saying that he believes he was not born of any particular destiny or lineage, but rather, that his life is the result of random events. This reflects his belief at the point in the narrative that he has escaped the terrible prophecy made about his life. This statement is an example of dramatic irony because, though unknown to Oedipus at the time of speaking, he is actually the son of King Laius and Queen Jocasta of Thebes, and has unknowingly fulfilled the prophecy by marrying his own mother and killing his father.
What is the significance of Oedipus calling himself the "child of chance" in the context of the story? Oedipus calling himself the "child of chance" is significant because it reveals his belief that his life is governed by luck rather than fate. This declaration adds to the dramatic irony of the story as the audience knows the truth about Oedipus' parentage and the prophecy he unknowingly fulfills.