This excerpt from Oedipus Rex supports Aristotle’s idea of fear and pity in an effective tragedy. In the passage, Oedipus discovers he has inadvertently fulfilled the prophecy that he would kill his father and marry his mother—a horrific fate which was caused by both his own actions (the fight with Laius) as well as forces beyond his control (the manipulative gods). The audience is likely to feel both deep empathy for Oedipus’ plight along with terror at what may come next due to his poor choices. Thus, this excerpt perfectly encapsulates Aristotle’s view on how an effective tragedy can produce both pity and fear in its audience.