Nobody would envy the situation Oedipus finds himself in at the end of Sophocles' playwright 'King Oedipus', a situation that he in part brought down on himself through his unflinching efforts to uncover the answers of the past. Once proclaiming to Thebes that he would find Laius' killer he continues to search for the answers he seeks, even when those answers are far from what he or anyone else expected. His ability to solve riddles was an aspect of Oedipus' personality that he prided himself on. However, when this riddle is solved a can of worms is opened that continues to plague him and his family for many years to come, yet Oedipus' character and integrity still remain intact at the end of the play.
             We are introduced to Oedipus as a strong and effective leader –"greatest of men"- while also being caring and compassionate. He is content with his life but is always willing to assist his kingdom in whatever way is necessary. He is admired and trusted by all his subjects, largely as a result of his defeat of the sphinx fifteen years earlier. However, his hamartia becomes evident when his impetuous nature is revealed.
             Upon learning of the plague afflicting Thebes Oedipus is quick to act- "I have not been idle." He begins to search for Laius' killer, however when no information comes forth he becomes reckless and begins to call down curses from the Gods before he has accumulated any substantial evidence. While this course of action does ultimately begin the process of uncovering the past, when others come forth Oedipus fails to give any consideration to the consequences. With the best intentions he immediately commits himself fully to finding Laius' killer as he proclaims, "I must. I cannot leave the truth alone." Oedipus commitment to the truth deepens when he begins to realise that somehow he is connected to Thebes' current plight. Initially the detectiv...