As a leader, one should expect to sacrifice his or her preferences for the better. This person should be reliable and knowledgeable in leading. Early in the play, qualities of a leader manifest in Oedipus. The Priest calls on Oedipus to save Thebes. He knows Oedipus successfully saves Thebes in the past. The Priest says, “ Once you have brought us luck with happy omen; be no less now in fortune,” (60-61). He thinks Oedipus has the most experience to defeat the plague and famine the Sphinx strikes on Thebes. Oedipus acquires wisdom through his past encounter with the Sphinx.
Leadership attributes reveal from Oedipus as the city depends on him to solve the problems in Thebes. Among the children of Thebes, Oedipus develops the image, and respect, of a god. Although his persona remains the same, the children approach him wearing “suppliant crowns,” asking him to restore the city (2). With these crowns upon him, Oedipus delivers the impression of a higher power, someone who can fix all of the issues Thebes faces. The Priest suggest Oedipus may “hear a wise word from some God” telling him how to resurrect the city from its ill conditions (49).
Oedipus asks what he can do to save the city and tries to take action. He says, “For when I drive pollution from the land I will not serve a distant friend’s advantage, but act in my own interest” (166-168). His choice to help the people of Thebes is his own choice. Oedipus is naturally genuine and passionate about saving Thebes. He believes it is his duty to rid the famine and plague in the city. He explains, “since after all was finished, I became a citizen among you, citizens” (239-240). He feels an inclination to protect Thebes.
I agree with you Jubreel as Oedipus is characterized as uite the leader early in the play. He actions are admirable and he goes out of his way to do the right thing. This brings up the question, can Oedipus act as such a leader for the rest of the play or will his murder unearthing itself cause for a change?
ReplyDeleteIt is true that when the play begins Oedipus has already built up a history of success and I agree that the people of Thebes treat him as a god because of his successful leadership. This is shown in the way his people readily seek his aid in times of trial. Oedipus also appears to be prideful and over confident in his demeanor, and though he seems to honestly care for his people, these characteristic may contribute to his downfall.
ReplyDeleteOedipus certainly has the qualities of a leader, but is that really justification for killing the old King? Especially if you have the qualifications to be a king, that immediately becomes overshadowed by the fact that Oedipus killed the old King.
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