OedipusThe Tragic Hero

Throughout the drama, Oedipus relentlessly strives to discover two seemingly polar entities: the murderer of Laius, and his own true identity.

One quality of particular interest is Oedipus' morality and fairness. More importantly, however, Oedipus has offended the Gods. Oedipus has clearly broken laws and taboos through his unwholesome behavior.

Oedipus, though an honorable character, is guilty. This promise is backed by Oedipus' well-known victory over the Sphinx, and his people believe instantly that their king will solve all their troubles. In the end of his tragic downward spiral of truth, however, Oedipus discovers their equality. The people of Thebes trust Oedipus because they recognize his persistence. By avoiding fate early in life through feeble means (leaving his parents), Oedipus angers the Gods, and eventually pays for his wrongdoing through his own punishment. Aside from his outward determination, many other qualities can be seen in Oedipus. As king, he promises his subjects that he will rid Thebes of all pestilence and famine. He has attempted to alter the most important and immutable constant of Greek philosophy: fate. Though Oedipus is guilty, his self-banishment relieves his guilt and redeems his character.