In the play, Oedipus Rex, the main character Oedipus exhibits qualities which are shared by all mankind. Whether it is his intelligence, courage, devotion, self-confidence, impatience, anger, or persistence, Oedipus symbolizes man's prominence and blemishes concurrently. Several of these characteristics prove to be emblematic of the Athenian people and the great Athenian statesman, Pericles. It is these qualities that bring about his downfall and help ameliorate his end, a paradox worthy of our attention. Furthermore, it is important for us to see Oedipus as a human being rather than a deity, thus establishing him as an individual we can all relate to.
             Throughout the play, Oedipus proves to possess several constructive qualities that distinguish him as a hero. One of these heroic qualities is intelligence. Perhaps the most well known example of this is Oedipus' ability to solve the riddle of the ruthless Sphinx. "It was no easy riddle, and he answered it, as he proudly asserts, without help from prophets, from bird-signs, from gods; he answered it alone, with his intelligence" (Knox, "Sophocles' Oedipus", 6). This in fact, won Oedipus the city of Thebes, and consequently the respect of all its inhabitants. It proved Oedipus' natural cleverness and rational ability, an important skill that all heroes should possess. The process by which Oedipus pursues his search for Lauis' killer is another example that accurately demonstrates Oedipus' intellect. This can be seen from the beginning of the play through Oedipus' quick and decisive questioning of Tiresias and Creon. He equates and measures all in his reach. "Here is Oedipus the equator and measurer, this is the method by which he will reach the truth: calculation of time and place, measurement and comparison of age and number and description-these are the techniques which will solve the equation, establish the identity of the murderer of Laius" (Knox, "Sophocles' Oedipus", 6). This how...