Oedipus

    Oedipus’ people define him as a hero. Ever since Oedipus figures out the riddle of the Sphinx and takes throne, the people look up to him for any problems that occur in the future. Later in his time of rule, a plague finds his city and curses and makes crops refuse to grow, woman die while giving birth, and children born stillborn. Since the people look up to Oedipus, they go to him to resolve their problem. The priest says, “Act now-we beg you, best of men, raise up to our city! Act, defend yourself, your former glory! Your country calls you savior now for your zeal, your former glory!”(l. 57-60). Oedipus cares only for his people’s safety because he says, “I grieve for these, my people, far more than i fear for my whole life”(l. 105).

    Oedipus’ character traits include him being easily angered. As Tiresias tells Oedipus that he is the murderer, Oedipus tell Tiresias, “you are the curse, the corruption of the land”(l. 401). Tiresias’ words displeases Oedipus so much, Oedipus tells Tiresias, “you, shameless- aren't you appalled to start up such a story? You think you can get away with this?”(l. 401-403). As Tiresias and Oedipus continue to bicker back and forth with each other, Oedipus’ anger enrages as far as getting Tiresias thrown away because his anger was peaking. Oedipus says, “yes, take him away. You're a nuisance here. Out of the way, the irritation’s gone”(l. 506-507). Oedipus then makes a statement to the chorus as if he were talking to all his people.