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| The people in Thebes plead to Oedipus to end the plague that surrounds the country. They look up to Oedipus like a father and brother who can rescue the people from the deadly plague. |
A leader, a hero, a savior - they have one thing in common- someone who takes control, commands, and saves their country or individuals from any aspect of danger. Oedipus introduces the main character, Oedipus as an individual who is notable for his compassion, sense of justice, swiftness of action, and integrity. As Thebes surrounds itself with death, Oedipus protects Thebes by finding a method to eliminate the plague by sending “Menoeceus’ son Creon, Jocasta’s brother, to Apollo, to his Pythian temple, that he might learn there by what act or word [Oedipus] could save this city” (78-82). Being King of Thebes, Oedipus constantly expresses his concern for the health and well-being of his people. He treats his people with consideration and care such as insisting Creon to “speak it to all” (106) rather than Creon’s suggestion to hear the news in private. Oedipus shows determination, leadership skills, and brilliance like a worthy king as he rescues Thebes before from the “riddling Sphinx” (158). Now, Apollo’s task to Oedipus is “banishing a man, or expiation of blood by blood, since it is murder guilt which holds [the] city in this destroying storm” (118-120). Oedipus is emphatic in his promises of dire punishments for Laius’s murderer, even if the murderer turns out to be close to Oedipus.
A man of impeccable character such as Oedipus himself reveals his sincerity and impetuous passion for Thebes by his vehement speeches and promises. Oedipus would rather die for the benefit of Thebes and the people than have to live with the plague, endangering the innocent lives as he says, “whoever he was that killed the king may readily wish to dispatch me with his murderous hand” (168-170). Oedipus follows his will with an intellectual passion and fine characteristics that exemplifies his skills as king.
Oedipus does possess heroic and praiseworthy qualities while protecting the citizens of Thebes from the “riddling Sphinx” (158) and while locating the previous king’s murderer. Although he contains these worthy qualities, it appears as if he holds an overabundance of “intellectual passion”. In approximately all Greek plays, a character experiences a fall due to hubris – too much pride. Oedipus appears to be in this situation during the play. He should be recognized for his commendable achievements, but those achievements were not accomplished alone. He receives assistance from the Gods, but does not give them credit; Oedipus is too proud of himself and for what he has done for the land of Thebes. He desires to keep all the glory to himself which essentially proves he does not possess a great deal of integrity.
ReplyDeleteOedipus is a hero but his hubris is his downfall. He perceives himself as the people do, which augments his ego. So when Tiresias doesn't tell him what he wants to hear, he tries to bully him into doing so.
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