Oedipus Post #2

   Oedipus's mission to find King Laius's killer leads to an unexpected twist. Upon meeting with the blind prophet, Tiresias, Oedipus hears unpleasant news. Tiresias tells Oedipus that he is "the corruption of the land"(400).  When faced with this response, Oedipus becomes in denial and says "Aren't you appalled to start up such a story?" (403). Oedipus has a poor quality of becoming too defensive when faced with adversity. 

    After verbally attacking the prophet, Tiresias, Oedipus confides in his wife for advice while he debates killing Creon as he suspects him of being King Laius's true killer. Jocasta proves to be a carefree woman and doubts the power of the prophets. When she hears that a prophet accused Oedipus of the murderer, she says "Well then, free yourself of every charge." (779). This illustrates the fact that Jocasta genuinely had no clue of the incestuous acts she has committed with her son. It is unclear whether or not her initial response to Oedipus being accused as a killer is an act of genuine doubt toward the prophets or an unyielding loyalty to Oedipus. 

    Upon hearing of Polybus’s Death, Oedipus and Jocasta begin to rejoice as it seems to confirm the fact that Tiresias's prophecies were false. The joy does not last long as Oedipus is still afraid of committing incest with his mother as he states, "But my mother's bed, surely I must fear"(1068). This attribute connects to a previous post of mine. Oedipus's unrelenting drive and determination will not allow him to let anything slip his mind without being confirmed. Unless there is proof, Oedipus will never truly be comfortable in knowing he did not have incest with his mother. While determination may seem to be a good trait, it seems as if it will end up making Oedipus find out things he was better off not knowing.