The Fall of Oedipus RexThe Greek playwright Sophocles was born around 496 BC and died in 406 BC During his lifetime he wrote many plays, one of which was Oedipus Rex. Sophocles was the first playwright to add a third actor to the play. Actors could play many different parts, but the show was limited to just three actors and the chorus. (Literature, page 1065) Oedipus' fall occurred because of the tragic flaw in his character. Oedipus was very capricious and easily angered. He was a proud individual who wished to be a hero and avenge Laius' death. His devout need to know the truth and to have proof that it was indeed the truth also led to his downfall. Oedipus had a very short temper. Oedipus did not want to hear what Tiresias had to say after begging him to tell him everything he knew. "I have to hear this from him! Damn you! Get out of here right now! Turn around and leave!" (Literature, Oedipus Rex, Ln. 434-436, page 1085) Oedipus flew into a rage when Tiresias spoke to him about the evils he was living with. Oedipus took great pride in saving people and being seen as a hero. He wanted Laius' death to be avenged and he should be the one to find the murderer and punish him. "I will fight for him, I will leave no stone unturned, to capture him who has done this with his hand..." (Literature, Oedipus the King, Ln. 270-271, page 1081) He did not want to disappoint the people of Thebes and he wanted to prove that he would be a true hero once again. Oedipus was searching for the truth to find out what really happened with his birth and life. Oedipus was searching for the truth and needed to know all the facts to convict the murderer. "Ah! It was all meant to be true!" (Literature, Oedipus Rex, Ln.