The production adheres strictly to the classical Sophoclean framework. It lacks explicit depictions of non-cisnormative identities or same-sex romantic narratives, focusing instead on the heteronormative bond between Oedipus and Jocasta.

Taymor disrupts traditional hierarchies by centering Jocasta's tragic agency. The direction emphasizes female power and psychological complexity, moving away from simplistic portrayals of submissive femininity within the Theban hierarchy.

An avant-garde, non-naturalistic aesthetic avoids traditional whitewashing. The visual design utilizes an international, diverse ensemble to reflect the universalist ambitions of the Stravinsky and Cocteau collaboration.

The film explores moral relativism through a postmodern lens. It deconstructs divine authority, presenting the Delphic Oracle and cosmic fate as systemic forces of inevitability rather than purely moralistic ones.

There are no prominent depictions of physical or neurodivergent disabilities. No such traits serve as central character arcs or significant plot devices within this adaptation.