Oedipus the King

De: Sophocles

Narrado por: Michael Sheen, full cast

In the hands of Sophocles, the master dramatist, the anguished tale of a man fated to kill his father and marry his mother retains its power to shock and move beyond any Freudian reference. In this new translation, performed by an outstanding cast led by Michael Sheen, the searing inevitability facing Oedipus proves as shocking as it was 2,500 years ago when it was first presented in the theatre at Athens. Translated by Duncan Steen.

Download the accompanying reference guide.©1999 NAXOS AudioBooks Ltd. (P)1999 NAXOS AudioBooks Ltd.

Compelling performance

I use this performance to get my students comfortable with ancient Greek tragedy. By the end, they are enthralled.

Oedipus The King

Well read, great ambient noise. Sets the mood well.

different from book version

Good, but different wording than the version I'm reading (the "enriched" edition with a red cover and a Macaulay Caulkin horror face.)

True classic

Well read. Inimitable tragedy. Some voices could be better amplified.

absolutely awesome

I was caught off guard by this production, with its multiple parts and chorus, after listening to so many books in single voice. The translation is contemporary, and may come as a surprise, if you're expecting a classic production of a classic tragedy. You'll know you're listening to a tragedy. It is heart-wrenching without ever being maudlin. Highly recommended.