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When Oedipus is first introduced, he appears to be a confident, valiant hero and reasonably so. Taking into mind the background of the drama, we learn that this foreigner to Thebes arrives at the city limits, braves death, solves the Sphinx’s riddle and releases the city from the horrible terror. Only a man like Oedipus, a man possessing tremendous intelligence and self-confidence could have such courage. Although at times Oedipus questions the gods’ accuracy and authority, the people don’t mind because of the great deed he had done.
When Oedipus succeeds, he becomes instantly famous and loved by all because of his courage and intelligence. The citizens of Thebes consider Oedipus’ actions are special gifts from the gods used to benefit the city as a whole.
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Oedipus now takes the role of a paranoid tyrant. Upon Creon’s departure, Jocasta herself questions the accuracy of the prophecies using the example of the prophecy that Laius’ would be killed by his own son. I find it incredible that Oedipus never distanced himself from his people. Often when someone becomes famous, they tend to forget their roots and assume a status higher than everyone else.
Upon Creon’s arrival, Oedipus learns of the good news that to lift the plague, the murder of the previous king, Laius, must be found. Oedipus begs for assistance in finding the murderer, only to have Tieresias announce that he should have never come and wishes to depart.
It is my opinion that at this point, Oedipus is at the point of no return. However, one statement troubled Oedipus – the mention of a meeting of three roads – because he once killed a man while in a fit of rage at such an area.
Upon the messenger’s arrival, he tells Oedipus that he is that same baby. But instead, Oedipus was the only one who was smart enough to do so. If Teiresias is a seer, then he should have been able to solve the riddle. A messenger from Corinth enters with the news that Oedipus's father Polybus is dead.
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