The play, "Oedipus Rex" is a classic example of a tragedy. One reason this play is considered tragic is it shows a downfall of an exceptional character belonging to a highly ranked family. Normally, the character on the top of the hierarchy is ultimately successful in the end. However, after Oedipus finds out he married his mother, thus causing Jocasta to hang herself, and killed his father, he brutally stabs his eyes out so he doesn't have to see his evil deeds again. Throughout the play, Oedipus was perceived to be the hero of the royal family. At the end, we see Oedipus falling as a tragic hero. Another reason it's considered to be a tragedy is because the protagonist suffers because of a tragic error, which would be marrying his mother and killing his father. Another trait that is usually shown in a tragedy is the protagonist's error is in the form of pride that goes before a fall. Oedipus's pride is affected when he learns the truth and consequences of his actions towards his parents. Having been ashamed of himself, he ultimately falls as a hero. Oedipus's main fatal flaw would have to be his anger. He leaves his home in anger, because he was told his fate was to kill is father and marry his mother. His anger is shown when he gets upset about this news and kills 5 men, including Laius. The ultimate consequence for Oedipus's actions is his fate coming true.