Oedipus the King Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for Oedipus the King.
Oedipus the King Ending Explained: This classic Greek tale tells how a noble youth accidentally marries his own mother, kills his own father and ends up paying a terrible price for invoking the wrath of the Gods. Directed by Philip Saville, this 1968 drama film stars Christopher Plummer (Oedipus), alongside Lilli Palmer as Jocasta, Richard Johnson as Creon, Orson Welles as Tiresias. With a 6/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Oedipus the King?
This classic Greek tale tells how a noble youth accidentally marries his own mother, kills his own father and ends up paying a terrible price for invoking the wrath of the Gods.
How Does Christopher Plummer (Oedipus)'s Story End?
- Christopher Plummer: Christopher Plummer's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Lilli Palmer (Jocasta): Lilli Palmer's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Richard Johnson (Creon): Richard Johnson's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Oedipus the King Mean?
Oedipus the King's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Christopher Plummer may feel rushed. Philip Saville's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.