Costume Design - Oedipus

Tiresias: Purple

Purple is a color usually associated with royalty, so the initial thought would be to give this color to somebody like Oedipus or Jocasta. However, the color also means spirituality and wisdom. Tiresias, a man who has Apollo’s sight, is called into Thebes to help find the murderer of Laius.

Creon: Yellow

The color yellow is a stand-in for intelligence and wisdom, traits that Creon has. He has more knowledge on the situation and on the state of things in Thebes than Oedipus, especially when Oedipus accuses him of treachery. In addition, can mean betrayal, just like the charge that was once on his head.

Oedipus: Black

Oedipus makes a statement in his striking black tunic. Black is the symbol of the power, determination, and authority that he wields. It also signifies the ignorance of his prophesy, and the mourning and remorse he is in at the end of the tragedy.

Shepard: Brown

This color has two meanings that apply to the Shepard. One is the earth and outdoors, where the Shepard works. The other is mourning. The holder of the terrible truth, the Shepard knows that Oedipus will fall into despair when he tells him the truth.

Messenger: Blue

The messenger’s loyalty and devotion to Oedipus gains him this royal color. The messenger, a representative of Corinth, wants to bring Oedipus back as the ruler of Corinth.

Jocasta: Orange

This color accurately symbolizes Jocasta’s attraction to Oedipus as both a wife and as a mother. It also stands for her warnings to Oedipus not to pursue the identity of her late husband’s murderer.