Sphinx

Definition

In Greek mythology, the Sphinx is a creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human, symbolizing riddles and mysteries. The Sphinx is best known for posing a deadly riddle to travelers, particularly in the myth of Oedipus, where it plays a crucial role in the narrative by challenging those who seek to enter Thebes. This creature embodies themes of knowledge, wisdom, and the consequences of failing to understand its enigmatic nature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Sphinx's riddle famously asks, 'What walks on four legs in the morning, two legs at noon, and three legs in the evening?' The answer is 'man.'
2. If travelers could not solve the Sphinx's riddle, they were killed, making it a terrifying obstacle for those attempting to enter Thebes.
3. The Sphinx is often depicted as a guardian figure, representing knowledge and protection but also danger if one fails to meet its challenges.
4. Oedipus's success in answering the riddle leads to his entry into Thebes and his subsequent rise to power, demonstrating the intertwined fate of humans and fate.
5. In some variations of the myth, after Oedipus solves the riddle, the Sphinx is so distraught that it leaps off a cliff, symbolizing the defeat of ignorance.

Review Questions

• How does the Sphinx serve as a pivotal character in Oedipus's journey and what does this reveal about Greek views on knowledge and fate?
  • The Sphinx is central to Oedipus's journey as it represents both a challenge he must overcome and a test of his intellect. By solving its riddle, Oedipus not only proves his wisdom but also unwittingly sets into motion events that lead to his tragic downfall. This reflects Greek views that knowledge can be both empowering and perilous, as understanding one's fate may come with dire consequences.
• Analyze the symbolism of the Sphinx in relation to human existence and knowledge in Greek mythology.
  • The Sphinx symbolizes the complexity of human existence, where knowledge can bring enlightenment but also suffering. Its riddles challenge travelers to confront their understanding of life’s mysteries. The dual nature of the Sphinx—as both a guardian and a threat—highlights how knowledge can empower individuals while simultaneously revealing harsh truths about their fate.
• Evaluate how the story of Oedipus and his encounter with the Sphinx reflects broader themes in Greek mythology regarding destiny and self-discovery.
  • The tale of Oedipus confronting the Sphinx encapsulates broader themes in Greek mythology surrounding destiny and self-discovery. As Oedipus solves the riddle and confronts his fate, he embodies the tension between free will and predestined outcomes. His initial victory over the Sphinx leads him closer to his tragic fate, illustrating how self-discovery can be both enlightening and destructive, as individuals grapple with their true identities against cosmic forces.

Related terms

Oedipus:

A tragic hero in Greek mythology who unknowingly kills his father and marries his mother, ultimately solving the Sphinx's riddle.

Riddle: A puzzling question or statement that requires thought and cleverness to solve, often used by the Sphinx to test the intelligence of travelers.

Thebes: An ancient Greek city that served as the setting for many myths, including the story of Oedipus and his encounter with the Sphinx.