Odeipus Rex Question?

Question

In Oedipus Rex, what is Oedipus's hamartia(fatal flaw)?

Answer 1

Pride was his flaw. It's what causes his downfall in the end. He thought he can escape fate (destiny) by running away from his adoptive parents to stop the prophecy that he would kill his father and marry his mother (this could be seen as a sign of pride). Again we see his pride, when he actually killed his biological father Laius in a crossroad because he would not give him the right of way (thus fulfilling the prophecy that he tried so hard to avoid). He also scolds Tiresias for not giving him the truth of who killed Laius. He was stubborn to heed Tiresias' pleas to reveal the truth because he is king and as king he took upon himself the responsibility of trying to free Thebes from the plague (again pride). However, this relentless effort to know the truth is what ultimately caused his downfall.

Answer 2

Pride and ego.