Oedipus and the power of self-discovery

             A journey through the Greek myth that inspires reflections on destiny, choices, and overcoming challenges

Imagine solving the riddle of a legendary monster, only to discover that the greatest mystery lies within yourself. The myth of Oedipus, one of the most striking stories from Ancient Greece, is not just a tragedy: it’s an invitation to reflect on who we are, the choices we make, and the power to shape our destiny. In this article, we dive into Oedipus’s legacy, connecting it to contemporary wisdom and practical lessons for modern life.

Ancient Greece is a beacon that illuminates Western civilization, and the myth of Oedipus, immortalized in Sophocles’ tragedy, is one of its brightest gems. The story of Oedipus, king of Thebes, who unknowingly kills his father and marries his mother, has resonated for centuries as a mirror of the human condition. More than a tale of tragedy, it speaks to us about self-knowledge, responsibility, and resilience. The “Greco-Roman Theater” collection by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, particularly the book “The Myth of Oedipus,” brings this story to young audiences with vibrant language, showing that Oedipus’s dilemmas still echo in our lives. Why does this story, written over two thousand years ago, remain so relevant? Because it challenges us to confront our own enigmas, just as Oedipus faced the Sphinx.

Motivational quote: “True knowledge comes from keen observation of life and the courage to face its truths.” – Maria Montessori

Oedipus’s journey begins with a riddle: the Sphinx, a monster half-lion, half-woman, terrorized Thebes with a deadly question: “What walks on four legs in the morning, two in the afternoon, and three at night?” With his sharp intellect, Oedipus answers: “Man.” This initial victory crowns him a hero but also marks the beginning of his tragedy. The Sphinx’s metaphor is powerful: in life, we often solve external problems, but the real challenges lie in understanding who we are. Recent studies from Harvard University on positive psychology suggest that self-knowledge is the foundation for a fulfilling life. Like Oedipus, we all face internal “sphinxes” – doubts, fears, and uncertainties – that demand courage to decipher.

Curiosity box: the sphinx in modern culture
The Sphinx has inspired works of art, literature, and even games. In the film “Pan’s Labyrinth” (2006), director Guillermo del Toro uses riddles to symbolize psychological challenges, echoing Oedipus’s struggle against the Sphinx. In psychology, the term “Sphinx’s enigma” is used to describe the search for life’s meaning.

The work of Antônio Carlos dos Santos, especially his “Greco-Roman Theater” collection, harnesses the educational power of theater to tell these stories. His MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater) methodology combines reflection, practice, and dramaturgy to engage young people with mythological narratives. In the book “The Myth of Oedipus,” Santos transforms the tragedy into an accessible play, encouraging audiences to reflect on choices and consequences. The ThM (Theater Movement) methodology explores bodily movement to express emotions, while MBPT (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater) uses puppets to make stories more playful and approachable. These innovative approaches show how theater can be a powerful tool for teaching values and fostering critical thinking.

Practical tip: Bring theater into your home or classroom! Gather friends or family and stage a scene from the Oedipus myth. Choose a pivotal moment, like the encounter with the Sphinx, and have each person play a character. This helps build empathy and encourages reflection on ethical dilemmas.

The tragedy of Oedipus also inspired Sigmund Freud, who in the 19th century developed the concept of the “Oedipus Complex.” According to Freud, between the ages of three and five, children develop a special attachment to their parents, shaping their personality and desires. Though controversial, this concept has been studied by neuroscientists at Yale University, who confirmed that family relationships in childhood influence emotional patterns in adulthood. Oedipus’s story reminds us that our choices, even unconscious ones, have lasting consequences. Just as Oedipus didn’t know Laius was his father, we often act without fully understanding the impact of our actions.

Inspiring story: Malala Yousafzai and Facing Destiny
Malala, the young Pakistani who survived a Taliban attack, is a modern example of someone who confronted her own “oracle.” Like Oedipus, she defied the forces trying to limit her, using education as a weapon against oppression. Her courage inspires us to question what seems predestined and fight for a better future.

The myth of Oedipus also teaches us about resilience. After discovering the truth about his actions, Oedipus faces exile and blindness, but his story doesn’t end in despair. He takes responsibility for his actions and moves forward, a symbol of overcoming adversity. Studies from Stanford University on resilience show that accepting and learning from mistakes is essential for personal growth. Oedipus reminds us that, even in the face of tragedy, we can find strength to start anew. Antônio Carlos dos Santos’s play highlights this message, showing that theater can be a safe space to explore difficult emotions and find hope.

Curiosity Box: theater in Ancient Greece
In Ancient Greece, theater was more than entertainment: it was a civic and religious ritual. Tragedies like those of Sophocles were performed at festivals in honor of Dionysus, drawing thousands of spectators. These events helped communities reflect on ethics, politics, and destiny.

Santos’s collection, with its four books – “The Myth of Sisyphus,” “The Myth of Midas,” “Pandora’s Box,” and “The Myth of Oedipus” – offers a window into the richness of Greco-Roman mythology. Each work explores universal values like justice, ambition, and curiosity that remain relevant today. The book on Oedipus, in particular, invites reflection on destiny. Are we bound to a predetermined script, as the oracle that condemned Oedipus suggested? Or can we shape our future through our choices? Modern neuroscience, in studies from the University of Oxford, suggests that our perception of “free will” is influenced by both genetics and environment, but there is always room for conscious decisions.

Motivational quote: “Learning is a process of discovery, not imposition.” – Jean Piaget

The final message of the Oedipus myth is inspiring: self-knowledge is liberating. By facing the truth, however painful, Oedipus becomes a symbol of courage. Antônio Carlos dos Santos, with his theatrical approach, invites us to do the same: look within, question our choices, and embrace the journey of growth. As Martin Luther King Jr. said, “The true measure of a man is not how he behaves in moments of comfort, but how he rises in times of controversy,” Oedipus teaches us that strength comes from facing the unknown. Why not start today by deciphering our own enigmas?

Practical tip: Set aside 10 minutes a day for a self-reflection exercise. Write in a journal: “What was the biggest challenge I faced today? How can I learn from it?” This habit, supported by studies from the University of Cambridge, strengthens emotional resilience.

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