Introduction
This essay explores the concept of fate in Sophocles’ ancient Greek tragedy, Oedipus the King, through the lens of the proverbial saying, “What will hit you will not miss you.” The narrative of Oedipus, a man doomed by prophecy to kill his father and marry his mother, serves as a profound illustration of the inexorable nature of fate within classical literature. By examining how fate operates as an unavoidable force in the play, this essay will argue that the saying encapsulates the tragic inevitability that defines Oedipus’ journey. The discussion will be structured into three main sections: an analysis of fate as a central theme in the play, a consideration of Oedipus’ futile attempts to escape his destiny, and a reflection on the broader implications of the saying in relation to human agency and divine will. Through this exploration, the essay aims to demonstrate a sound understanding of the text while engaging with critical perspectives on the nature of fate in Greek tragedy.
Fate as an Inescapable Force in Oedipus the King
In Oedipus the King, fate is portrayed as an omnipotent and inescapable force, intricately woven into the fabric of human life. Sophocles presents the prophecy delivered by the Oracle of Delphi as the catalyst for Oedipus’ tragic downfall. From the outset, Oedipus is told that he is destined to commit patricide and incest—an abhorrent fate that both he and his parents strive to prevent (Sophocles, 1991). Yet, despite these efforts, the prophecy is fulfilled with chilling precision. This narrative underscores the Greek belief in moira, or fate, as a power beyond human control, often determined by the gods. As Knox (1998) argues, Sophoclean tragedy frequently depicts fate as an unyielding framework within which human actions, regardless of intention, are ultimately bound to conform.
The saying “What will hit you will not miss you” resonates profoundly here. It suggests that predetermined events will occur regardless of attempts to avoid them, much like a projectile destined to strike its target. In Oedipus’ case, every decision—his departure from Corinth to avoid harming his supposed parents, his encounter with King Laius at the crossroads—unwittingly propels him towards his fated doom. This inevitability highlights the tragic irony at the heart of the play: the very actions taken to evade fate ensure its realisation (Dodds, 1966). Therefore, fate in Oedipus the King is not merely a backdrop but an active, relentless force, embodying the essence of the proverb under discussion.
Oedipus’ Struggle Against Destiny
Oedipus’ attempts to defy his prophesied fate demonstrate both his determination and his ultimate powerlessness. Upon learning of the Oracle’s prediction, he resolves to leave Corinth, believing this will protect Polybus and Merope, whom he assumes to be his biological parents. However, this act of self-exile inadvertently leads him to Thebes, where he unknowingly kills his real father, Laius, and marries his mother, Jocasta (Sophocles, 1991). Oedipus’ actions are driven by a belief in his own agency, reflecting a human desire to control one’s destiny. Yet, as the narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that his choices are illusory, serving only to align with the predetermined path.
Critical interpretations often highlight this tension between free will and fate in the play. For instance, Segal (2001) suggests that Oedipus’ apparent autonomy is a tragic illusion, as every choice he makes is circumscribed by divine ordinance. This perspective aligns with the saying “What will hit you will not miss you,” as it implies that Oedipus’ efforts to dodge his fate are futile; the target of his destiny is unerring. Moreover, Oedipus’ eventual self-blinding, upon discovering the truth, can be seen as an act of resignation to fate’s supremacy. Rather than continuing to fight against the inevitable, he accepts the consequences, embodying a tragic recognition of his powerlessness (Knox, 1998). This poignant moment illustrates how fate, once set in motion, cannot be eluded, no matter the human resistance.
Human Agency and Divine Will: Broader Implications of the Proverb
The saying “What will hit you will not miss you” extends beyond the narrative of Oedipus to raise broader questions about the relationship between human agency and divine will in Greek tragedy. In Oedipus the King, the gods, through oracles and prophecies, represent the ultimate arbiters of fate. Oedipus’ story suggests that human beings, despite their intelligence and determination, are subject to forces beyond comprehension or control. This dynamic reflects a worldview in which mortals are often pawns in a cosmic game, their lives shaped by divine whims (Dodds, 1966).
However, some critics argue that Sophocles does not entirely strip humans of responsibility. While fate dictates the outcome, Oedipus’ hubris—his excessive pride and refusal to heed warnings—arguably contributes to the manner of his downfall (Segal, 2001). For example, his relentless pursuit of the truth, despite Tiresias’ cautions, accelerates the revelation of his tragic reality. This interpretation suggests a nuanced interplay between fate and personal choice, where the inevitability of “what will hit you” does not absolve individuals of accountability for their actions along the way.
Furthermore, the proverb carries a fatalistic undertone that might resonate with audiences across different cultural contexts. It implies a passive acceptance of life’s hardships, an idea that contrasts with modern notions of self-determination. Yet, in the context of Greek tragedy, this resignation is not merely defeatist but a recognition of human limitations in the face of greater powers. As such, the saying encapsulates a central tenet of Sophoclean drama: the humbling of human pride before the immutable will of fate (Knox, 1998).
Conclusion
In conclusion, Oedipus the King provides a compelling exploration of fate as an inescapable force, vividly embodied in the saying “What will hit you will not miss you.” Through Oedipus’ doomed efforts to evade prophecy, Sophocles illustrates the tragic inevitability that governs human life in Greek tragedy. The analysis has shown how fate operates as a relentless power, rendering human agency futile while simultaneously highlighting the irony of actions taken to avoid destiny. Additionally, the proverb invites reflection on the tension between divine will and personal responsibility, a theme that remains central to interpretations of the play. Ultimately, this discussion underscores the enduring relevance of Sophocles’ work in grappling with universal questions about destiny and control. While human efforts to shape the future persist, the narrative of Oedipus serves as a timeless reminder that some outcomes are beyond our reach—a poignant truth captured in the fatalistic wisdom of the saying.
References
- Dodds, E. R. (1966) On Misunderstanding the Oedipus Rex. Greece & Rome, 13(1), pp. 37-49.
- Knox, B. M. W. (1998) Oedipus at Thebes: Sophocles’ Tragic Hero and His Time. Yale University Press.
- Segal, C. (2001) Oedipus Tyrannus: Tragic Heroism and the Limits of Knowledge. Oxford University Press.
- Sophocles (1991) Oedipus the King. Translated by D. Grene. University of Chicago Press.
