In Sophocles' Oedipus the King, Creon spends more time onstage in these three plays than any other character except the Chorus. Creon is both Jocasta's brother and a loyal Theban citizen. Creon proves to be an effective foil to the protagonist.
             Creon in Oedipus the King is shown to be separate from the citizens of Thebes. By referring to the people as "citizens", it demonstrates that he is looked upon as being above them. "Citizens, I have come because I heard the deadly words spread about me..." He is the brother of the queen after all. He tells Oedipus that he has brought news from the oracle and suggests that Oedipus hear it inside. Creon has the secretive, businesslike air of a politician, qualities that stand in sharp contrast to Oedipus, who tells him to speak out in front of everybody. While Oedipus insists on hearing Creon's news in public and builds his power as a political leader by promoting openness, Creon is a master of manipulation. He also treasures his integrity and his loyalty above everything else.
             Creon's presence is so constant and his words so crucial to many parts of the play that he cannot be dismissed as simply the bureaucratic fool he sometimes seems to be, although, his character does epitomize the patriotic sentiments of the ancient Greek society. Creon is completely dedicated to his city-state and also to his king Oedipus. He is rational, honest, and logical, aspects that come to light when he has a confrontation with Oedipus. Creon argues that he has no desire to usurp Oedipus as king because he, Jocasta, and Oedipus rule the kingdom with equal power-Oedipus is merely the king in name. When Oedipus blames him for a conspiracy to gain kingship and Creon replies, "As it stands now, all the prizes are mine, and without fear. But if I were king myself, I must do much that went against the grain." This reply also highlights his integrity, because he is being totally ...