In part one of Oedipus the King, Oedipus is making a promise. He promises to find the previous king Lauis's killer. He is doing this to show that he will not suffer the same fate. "I will not serve as a distant friend's asvantage, but act in my own interest. Whoever he was that killed the king may readily wish to dispatch me with his murderous hand; so helping the king I help myself."(436) Finding the king's killer will rid Oedipus of any fear in being murdered. His character allows him to kill two birds with one stone. Making him safe and letting the killer face justice. He is not a greedy king, and doesn't think only of himself. He has his priorities in order and is not confused on how he wants to operate. Oedipus is in control of himself.
             Oedipus's morales are what are to be expected from a "good" king. Part one begins with Oedipus talking to a priest. He is trying to understand his people better when speaking to him. "You're old and they are young; come, speak for them. What do you fear or want, that you sit here suppliant. Indeed I'm willing to give you all that you may need"(433) Oedipus wants to help his people, using whatever resources they need. His people will see him as a morale king.
             As a tragic character, all of Oedipus's qualities will lead to his downfall. His good morales and uncovetous manor will eventually proceed to his demise. As the story of his life unfolds, he begins to lose his balance. A once proud king will undoubtedly uncover an aspect of his life that will end his rule and most likely his life.
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