In Sophocles' Oedipus Tyrannous, the proganist is portrayed as a character that abuses his power because of his pride. Consequently, he becomes prejudiced towards others' suggesting that 'he' is the seeked murderer. He is also narcissistic, and self-absorbed, thinking he can settle the "pollution" that is "festering in [his] land" (pg.4). Furthermore, he has an enthusiasm to discover the truth of who his real parents are, and becomes much tempered when an unexpected event arises. This generates too many questions for the readers. For example, how does this make his a treacherous ruler? What summons his Tyrannous to be viewed as a pessimistic rex, and why does he demolish? Overall, we will see that Oedipus' pride, self absorption and temperament result in his tragic downfall.
             Oedipus' self absorption is portrayed in the first part of the play, when he is given the news that there is a "hidden sore festering in [his] land" (pg.4). He calms his people by showing them that the problem concerned him: "I chose not to hear from my messenger, but came myself--I came, Oedipus, Oedipus whose name is known to all" (pg.3). This illustrates his extreme eager to gain the knowledge that will help him rid the Thebes of its ill. In other words, he declares that he understands the pain they suffer, yet it is 'his' heart that must bear the strain of sorrow for them all. Throughout the first part Oedipus' assessment of himself is more revealed than his empathy for his citizens; this is one of his major character flaws.
             Oedipus' temperament is learnt next in the play as he gets enraged by the news Teiresias brings him: "From this day deny yourself the right to speak to any one. You, Oedipus, are the desecrator, the pollution of this land" (pg.10). Oedipus cannot overcome his rage or act rationally and rails at Teiresias upon hearing that he is de
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