What type of literary work is "Oedipus Rex"?

"Oedipus Rex," written by Sophocles, is classified as a tragedy. This classification is rooted in its exploration of profound themes such as fate, free will, and the tragic downfall of a hero. In "Oedipus Rex," the protagonist, Oedipus, unwittingly fulfills a prophecy that foretells he will kill his father and marry his mother, leading to catastrophic consequences.

Tragedy as a literary form typically involves a noble character who experiences a fall from grace due to a tragic flaw or a critical misunderstanding, which resonates deeply with the audience's emotions. "Oedipus Rex" effectively captures this essence by showcasing Oedipus’s journey from a respected king to a figure of sorrow and despair, invoking feelings of pity and fear, which are essential elements of the tragic genre.

While "Oedipus Rex" is indeed a drama, the question requires a specific identification of its literary form, and tragedy is the most accurate label here. Moreover, it is neither a comedy nor a novel, as the play distinctly involves serious themes and a tragic framework, setting it apart from lighter literary works or longer prose narratives.