The use of ethical strategies in the clash between Oedipus and Creon in Oedipus Rex

uma análise do embate entre Édipo e Creonte, de Édipo Rei

Abstract

This article proposes to identify elements of Aristotle's Rhetoric in the agon between Oedipus and Creon, from Sophocles’ tragic play Oedipus Rex. The aim is to highlight the way in which the characters mobilize rhetorical skills, especially ethos, to conquer the Theban community to their respective perspectives. The association between the power of the word and the maintenance of justice and good governance will be demonstrated: in face of Oedipus' accusations, who finds himself desperate in search of an answer that can explain the evils that have been affecting the city, it is up to Creon to build a defense speech that can convince the chorus of his innocence. To achieve that, he presents himself as equanimous and prudent, highly valued virtues in a context marked by imbalance. Oedipus, on the other hand, sees his reputation as an enigma decipher lose strength: if he previously stood out as a knowledge authority, he now presents himself as a power authority, appealing to excesses and absurdity to mask his own ignorance.