Oedipus Rex and Approaches to Production
Oedipus Rex is an ancient Greek tragedy by Sophocles that is set in the ancient city of Thebes. The main character, King Oedipus is destined by fate to kill his father and marry his mother (Grene , 2012).
Literal and Translational Approaches
There are two approaches that can be adhered to in the production of this play. The approaches are either literal or translational approaches. A literal approach takes the play as it is with modification of costumes and scenery. On the other hand, translation approach takes the original play and writes it using new characters, new location and modern language.
A Director's Role in the Production
In a director’s role, I would take a translation approach to produce the play. Unlike plays that adhere to Aristotle unity of time and action, I will set up my play in such a manner that there are improvised plays and scenes within the main play. However, the play will stick to the main themes of pride and fate. The characters in the play will comprise of both male and female. Furthermore, costumes will be used to distinguish the role of each character. This is in contrast to ancient plays where all the characters were male with young males playing the role of the female. The weapons for King’s guard, as well as, the shepherds will comprise of modern guns replica.
Moreover, the play will incorporate humor since the modern audience is interested in entertainment and leisure rather than the subject. I will also incorporate modern technology such as lighting and sound to my advantage. The chorus in the original play of Oedipus the king will be replaced by modern background music such as the one in modern films. Modern dialect will be used throughout the play to create a sense of familiarity.
Thus, my approach would be the translation but with strict adherence to the original themes.
Reference
Grene , D. (2012). Oedipus the King. Chicago: University of Chicago Press.
