Selfish acts and curious inquiries prove to be dangerous human qualities. Following a display of wit and courage, Oedipus arrives in the city of Thebes, demanding control. It is here that he discovers himself. Curiosity and the promise to uncover King Laios's murderer drive Oedipus to his doom.
             Oedipus's loyalty to his people guides him closer to his truth. Oedipus announces to the people of Thebes, "I will help you in every way I can; I should be heartless were I not moved to find you suppliant here" (Prologue, 13-15). He is willing to sacrifice himself for the people of Thebes. Oedipus feels that his loyalty to the people of Thebes requires him to keep no secrets. Once Creon has returned with the oracle from Delphi, he says, "I am prepared to speak, But should we not go in?" (Prologue, 94-95). Oedipus responds, "Let them all hear it. It is for them I suffer, more than myself" (Prologue, 96-97). The oracles say that in order to rid the city of plague, the deceased King Laios's murderer must be exposed, so Oedipus claims that he shall discover the traitor and expose him to the city for punishment. Because Oedipus is King of Thebes, he wishes to know everything and feels that it is his divine right to know everything in his kingdom. As the oracles begin to reveal clues to Oedipus, he seeks more knowledge. While determined to reveal the murderer, Oedipus also seeks to understand how the oracles pertain to him.
             Oedipus knows that the oracles of Apollo have declared that he will murder his father and sleep with his mother. He is determined to comprehend how they speak truth if there is physical evidence contradicting it. After learning of King Polybus's death, the man that Oedipus believes is his father; Oedipus is relieved because he believes that the oracle was false. Iocaste reassures him, reminding him that Teiresias is only human, and that he may ha
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