Compare and Contrast the role of pride in both Oedipus and the Tempest - Essay Example

Compare and Contrast the role of pride in both Oedipus and the Tempest. Though Oedipus yields to a fated end filled with abomination while that of Prospero in The Tempest is marked by a remarkable freedom and peace in forgiveness, both men have had their share of being led by pride which readily assumes a form that can be substantially recognized with their distinct potentials as ruling figure and traveler altogether. The character of the imaginary pride may be felt present as the protagonists Oedipus and Prospero develop a sense of controlling their individual power in response to the oracle’s prophecy and a brother’s design, respectively.

Due to the pride established with daughter Miranda, even in far-off seclusion, Prospero has still managed to exercise his authority over Caliban and Ferdinand. He appears to not lose firm command as long as circumstances maintain the presence of dear possessions in Miranda and in his unique magical skills, giving him constant strength and spiritual servitude of non-human creatures. On the other hand, pride has portrayed itself as wisdom for Oedipus who consequently wins approval by the people to receive the honor as the new King of Thebes after outwitting the riddle of the sphinx.

As he uttered “If thou dost break her virgin-knot before All sanctimonious ceremonies…No sweet aspersion shall the heavens let fall To make this contract grow but barren hate,” clearly signifies how in his pride of having a chaste daughter Prospero exhibits a protective behavior as a father who would never afford trusting Ferdinand completely at the expense of Miranda’s purity. The role of pride nevertheless on the side of Oedipus seems to go with his destined curse. On exclaiming “My murderer and the filcher of my crown?

Come, answer this, didst thou detect in me Some touch of cowardice or witlessness?” Oedipus perceives a growing sense of insecurity toward the throne he eventually could not claim as his with cheer and lightness. It is deceptive pride which initially blinds him from the unknown guilt which he’d pay for by the culminating tragedy as prophecies become ultimately fulfilled.