Abstract

This article considers the social implications of the uncertainty surrounding Oedipus’ identity in Oedipus Tyrannus. It argues that questions of legitimacy, citizenship, and social status are raised at critical points in the play, and teases out the implications of details whose significance has not been recognized. It interprets Oedipus’ famous speech at 1076–85, in which he declares himself a “child of Tychē,” as a response to the news that he is a foundling; Oedipus acknowledges the stigma attached to those without a proven pedigree at the same time as he seeks to neutralize its effect on public perception.