Oedipus Colonus as tragedy: examining Aristotle's criteria
Aristotle sought to convey the techniques of a perfect tragedy by drawing all the distinctions that seem to be conveyed in Oedipus.
The perfect tragedy follows an outline of "six parts, which parts determine its quality—namely, Plot, Characters, Diction, Thought, Spectacle, Melody" (Aristotle; Poetics). Each of these six parts contain distinct conditions and the whole is supposed to result in a certain psychological sensation called catharsis where the reader/ spectator, through identifying with the protagonist, reaches a certain well-being of mood or purging of emotion.
Each of the six parts can be seen in the story of Oedipus in various ways.
Oedipus was the perfect character whom readers could identify with. His misfortune came about through error rather than vice. The story is complex enough to provide surprises yet holistic so that the whole centers around one plot and theme. The story follows a crescendo of beginning, middle, and end. It contains Melody and implications, and reflection.