In Oedipus the King, the Chorus functions as the collective voice of the citizens of Thebes. The Odes, sung by the chorus, also exemplify one of Aristotle’s criteria for great tragic theatre: “language enhanced by varying beauties.” Select one passage (You do not have to discuss the entire ode) sung by the Chorus and write a 150-word post in which you analyze the meaning of the passage and give examples of some of the beautiful language employed. Include the line numbers for us.
Please be sure to address comments to others by name,
128 thoughts on “Week 5 Discussion”
Oedipus is someone who carries himself with great pride and dignity. When he sees that the people are not feeling well, he appears before them as if he is a hero who will save the day. This also shows that he is very swift and quick to jump into action when he already knows about the plague and sends Creon to figure out how to save the city. It shows that he is also a good ruler and is loyal to his people. Oedipus also appears to be very confident and very determined but it also drives him to the point where he will not stop at anything to get what he wants. His determination even drives him to consider killing Creon if he has to for his own interests. Oedipus does not listen to anyone and he believes what he is doing is right which also shows that he is hard-headed in a way but is confident in their own ability.
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Angela, yes, Oedipus strikes me also as a very appealing blend of emotion and action. He feels the suffering of his people and is determined to alleviate it. He has reason to be confident, I think, as he once before saved the city. And he is a king! Does Thebes need a king who lacks confidence. Yet there is a red flag, as you mention, in the fact that he does not listen well and leaps to conclusions without evidence.
Hello Angela. I came up with similar point of views as you when it comes to the traits that Oedipus portrays within the text that we have read thus far. I agree that he is definitely a man of great pride of possibly even an ego that may be a fault as he may let his confidence get the best of him. As you state, this confidence leads him to not want to listen to anyone other than himself as he believes he is the only one who can handle the situation and knows exactly what to do about it. I wonder if this attitude will come into play later and be a downfall for him.
Hello Angela, I agree with your character analysis of King Oedipus. He is very prideful, determined, confident and hard headed. He does take great pride in his city and its people determined to do whatever it takes to save them from the plague. He is herd headed when the wise people around him are trying to help him see the facts of who the murder really is and when he does not want to accept to facts he quickly puts the blame on his own friend.
Hello Angela,
Indeed, King Oedipus ruled with pride. He thought himself to be a hero, unaware that he was the one bringing doom to his land. Imagine the confusion and outrage he felt within him when Teiresias presented this to him. The emotions consumed him enough to threaten death. Sometimes truth can enrage people. It will be interesting to read what his actions will be once he has accepted the truth.
Hello Angela,
I agree that King Oedipus was very prideful, ruling with said pride. Having too much pride however, is not a good thing, that ego, and pride will lead him to not listen to anyone and is unaware of the ruin he’ll eventually bring to his kingdom. He is still king hearted in some way because he sees the suffering of his people and will try to reduce the effects of it. Once he takes the truth for what it is (because the truth is harder to deal with rather than lying) I truly wonder just how he will react in turn.
Hi Angela,
Yes I also agree that Oedipus was definitely a strong character. His empathy for others stood out to me. But at the same time, he lets his confidence get the best of him. But I also wonder what would happen if he accepts the truth.
Hello Angela,
I agree with you that Oedipus is a character who carries a lot of pride. Although he is unaware that he is the one leading his own country to its doom, he can be seen as a strong character. He is indeed kind to his people and tries to help out whenever he needs to do something. Oedipus is a very hard-headed character when he sets his mind to something ultimately he will get it done and nothing can truly get in his way.
“Teiresias: Blindness as a Mirror”
The physical blindness characterized by Teiresias, the prophet in Sophocles’ “Oedipus the King,” serves as a mirror that identifies Oedipus as an ironically contradictory reflection of himself. In claiming that “blindness is in [Teiresias’] skill,” Oedipus places himself at odds with his own sense of blindness that will ultimately leave him at the mercy of fate with or without Teiresias’ guidance (line 451). Simultaneously, Teiresias’ critique of Oedipus as being blind to his fate – “you have your eyes but see not where you are” – implies a conflict in his own role as a prophet (line 482); for what is the purpose of a seer if the future is simply predetermined? As Teiresias notes Oedipus’ rising “temper,” the reader is able to position Oedipus’ view of himself as an exceptionally just ruler in contrast to his inability to contain that which he cannot exercise control over, including his passions (line 388). Symbolic of the role fate plays in the notion of free will, Teiresias’ initial reluctance to reveal to Oedipus the information he seeks is to his own admission pointless, explaining that “of themselves things will come although [he]…breathe[s] no word of them” (lines 382-384). The reader can conclude that Teiresias’ allusion of fate over free will is in essence the core of Oedipus’ central problem, for “it is this very luck that has destroyed [him]” (line 515). There remains however a considerable amount of uncertainty in regard to Teiresias’ motives in approaching Oedipus: did he really want Oedipus to “follow [his] advice” or was he truly being made to “speak against [his] will” (lines 355 & 409)? In exposing what is to become the central conflict of “Oedipus the King,” Teiresias’ blindness complements the metaphorical blindness of those around him and that of himself.
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Hello David, I agree with you when you mentioned about “Teiresias skill” even though he is blind. Moreover, Oedipus blinding himself on Teiresias guidance, thing he should not do for his own good. The conflict between Teiresias guidance and Oedipus paying attention to what he was told make him blind on things he could have seen and that conflict remain one of the central conflict of the play. After all we can conclude that the kind is hard headed, who believe his opinion are the best and other people opinion are not good.
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Hello David,
It’s very interesting to read this perspective of Teiresias. He is an interesting character because he does test the king and they battle whits. Teiresias is fearless against the king. He said “I have said what I came here to say not fearing your countenance..”. I aooreicate a character that stands there ground. I love how you described Teiresias it was very insightful.
Hello David,
Teiresias was mystical. I agree, his blindness was merely physical for his vision was never lost. You see empathy in his character for wanting to spare Oedipus from the harsh truth. However, through much taunting he unleashes a shocking blow. He did not budge any further and supplied no information even when threatened. Analyzing King Oedipus, Creon and Teiresias, you realize how different these three characters are. Although, their personality’s are extreme opposites, they work well collaboratively in this play. Their roles are similar to mind, body and soul. Creon (mind) for he character had balance and logic. Oedipus, (body) his character was always gratifying the moment, and Teiresias (soul) possessing the gift of prophecy. These are great ingredients for a seasoned tale.
King Oedipus, like most kings, was courageous. He warded off the Sphinx fearlessly earning him the kingdom of Thebes. He was empathetic, suffering with his people as indicated in Part 1:70-75, “Your several sorrows each have single scope and touch but one of you. My spirit groans for city and myself and you at once. You have not roused me like a man from sleep; know that I have given many tears to this, gone many ways wandering in thoughts, but as I thought I found only one remedy and that I took.” He ruled with pride and held strong to his morals. However, the confrontation with Teiresias displayed Oedipus’s vulnerability and fear of betrayal when the truth was presented with accusations of Creon and Teiresias plotting for the throne. When faced with deep rooted fears Oedipus seems to act out of desperation, contemplating killing both men opposing him. It is for similar reasons, King Oedipus fled Corinth. In trying to control moments out of desperation and fear, he believes he will change his destiny.
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Arlene, I love the quote you’ve selected here, which so eloquently shows Oedipus’ care for his people, as well as his strength and determination to help them. Yet you also pinpoint the moment when we begin to see another sideof him.
Hi, Arlene
My observation matches with your observation of king Oedipus. His proud and brave of his actions. As well, his fear of death on the men was making him stress a lot. But as you said he believes that he will change his destiny. That’s a good point too because he has the faith in himself he will figure out the truth and make things on the right path.
Arlene, I loved reading your response! I think you chose great supporting quotes and details to help elaborate the point you were getting across about what the king was like. I agree that he was like most typical kings. He was strong and brave, but like you said, had his downfalls when it came to confrontations and accusations. Great response!
In the Greek tragedy Oedipus the King, Jocasta is a very interesting and intriguing character. She was first the wife of Laius, before he was killed by Oedipus and then he (Oedipus) married her. This incident was a tragedy and brought disaster to Oedipus’ family and city.
From reading the play, Jocasta is a leader and commander in her right as queen. The line “Are you not ashamed to air your private griefs when the country’s sick” (lines 742 &743) when she was talking to powerful men like Oedipus and Creon shows her command and strong will. The next line telling these men to go into the house showed and leadership and power. This is are characteristics I observed she portrayed in the play.
Alongside Jocasta’s leadership and command, she also appears to be soft-spoken, understanding and sympathetic. More than once in the play, you see her begging Oedipus and trying to understand what has given a rise to his anger (line 803). In line 757, Jocasta also shows her sympathy by telling Oedipus to “spare him for her sake”. This is her using her position as his wife in order in order to make Oedipus calm down and spare the life of a man. I observe her showing sympathy and kindness.
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Ebube, thanks for the good comments about Jocasta. You make some wonderful observations about—and there will more to come as the play progresses. ‘m always struck by her sense of propriety. Unlike Oedipus, she believes that leaders must confer in private. She is queenly in this way. She is also a peacemaker and care giver.
My analysis of this plot is for the character of Creon. On the grounds that I consider him to be a character with a straight countenance and with several quite pronounced characteristics. Creon is a character who is loyal, prudent, wise, reasonable, sober, and respectable. Theses are linear characteristics that define the personality of Creon. The first observation I made of this character is that he is a loyal and prudent man. This was the reason why the Kind sent him to the oracle to investigate the future of the city because he was considered loyal to the King and the city. Creon was also prudent because he asked the King if he wanted to be notified of the news in public or preferred in private. Another observation I made was when I noticed that he was also a respectable and sober man. Because he was a prince and brother of the kings´ wife. Creon enjoyed much respect and admiration among the citizens of the town, for his skill with the words. Another observation that I also made was when I noticed an extremely wise and reasonable character. These being one of the most important virtues that characterize Creon. He wisely knew how to defend himself against the accusations made against him. Making King look like someone with little intelligence and little reason. Creon’s defense was judicious and clearly reasonable, even though the King refused to reason.
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Raquel, thanks for the good comments and for choosing a character who has not yet been discussed. I agree that in this part of the play, we see Creon as stable, prudent, loyal, and helpful. In contrast to Oedipus, he seems reasonable and much more slow to anger. At this point, he seems willing to take orders from the king and perform whatever task is asked of him. Please just be careful in your use of literary terms. You write, “My analysis of this plot is for Creon.” “Plot” refers to the events that take place in a story. Here you are making a character analysis, not a plot analysis. (That’s a note for everyone. not just you).
Hello Raquel,
Creon was a great character. I agree, he was loyal to King Oedipus. In the midst of chaos, Creon brought stability to the story. He was a man of his word, secure in his position, logical and direct in his speech. In my opinion, he would have made a better King. Unfortunately, he had no desire to be leader which made the accusations of him plotting for the throne absurd. Jacosta, his sister, was given in marriage to Oedipus by Creon when he defeated the sphinx. One would think that the queen would be the voice of reason. However, Creon was necessary in this tale to bring balance.
The character of Oedipus in the play entitled “Oedipus the King” by Sophocles demonstrates qualities that can be seen as admirable to the readers. This is seen in how, as king, he takes great importance in ensuring the safety of the people within Thebes. He sympathizes with their concerns over the suffering in which the community had been going through as he hopes to take action to get the area back in order. This is not the only admirable quality that he conveys however as Oedipus also holds himself with honor and a high self esteem as evident in his first entry into the text as he immediately recognizes himself as the one man who will take care of all the problems at hand. This also leads him to be seen as a person who seeks justice. He not only wants to seek justice to end the despair of his people, but he believes in justice being served to those who have done wrong. This is seen on how he plans to find and kill the murderer of Laius in order for this justice to be served.
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Hey Richard – your analysis into Oedipus’ sense of justice is without a doubt, inarguable. Of course, he knows this and all of Thebes knows this. However, there’s another side to his idea of justice that I think would’ve made your analysis of Oedipus more complete. Indeed, I thought you were going to touch upon this – you seemed to have been on your way to this point. The reader sees a double-standard in his Oedipus’ justice. There’s the just Oedipus that you discuss in which his pursuit of justice (finding Laius’ murderer) makes him just. But what happens to his sense of justice when he learns from Teiresias that he is the murderer he seeks? Do you agree/disagree that his manner of justice changed in this moment? Does Oedipus at line 439-440 (“Was this your design or Creon’s”) square with the Oedipus we at line 145 (“If we could even find a slim beginning in which to hope, we might discover much.”)?
David, these are all good questions to ponder. I wonder if Oedipus has actually considered the intricacies of justice before this confrontation with Teiresias.
Richard, yes Oedipus seems to have a highly developed regard for the concept of justice. He seems to feel that it is one of his duties as a king. He also seems to genuinely love his people, and he also takes on the protection of them as yet another duty of the office.
In “Oedipus the King” Creon has many characteristics. He comes off as upstanding, responsible, smart, loyal and reasonable. He shows the upmost respect. It is almost like he is the voice of reason to me because of his way with words and how he is very rational. His way of words and his intelligence is what stood out the most to me when he was accused of trying to overthrow the king, he properly defended himself with his words, he stated, “If you think obstinacy without wisdom a valuable possession, you are wrong” (lines 633-634). By him stating that he is showing that he is able to remain calm and respectful to the king as he tries to have the king realize the bigger picture although he was just accused of being against him. These are all traits of his personality which is why the king entrusted him in the first place with certain tasks like when the king sent him to see about the city’s future from the oracle.
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Heather, I think your emphasis on the reasonableness of Creon is well placed. It seems to loom above his other traits and presents a strong contrast with Oedipus’s impulsive and reactive nature.
Hi Heather,
I agree that Creon is someone who maintains his composure. He knows how to defend himself and he finds the right words. Creon embodies the voice of reason and he handles everything with gentleness. He is someone who is definitely fit to be someone’s right-hand because he seems very wise and respectful. Creon also presents himself as noble, loyal and honest to the citizens and his king. I think deep down Creon cares more about the city than the king though, I think he wants what is best for his home and in order to do that he needs to support his king.
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Hello Heather,
Like I said in my character analysis of Creon he definitely embodies the voice of reason and that he was loyal to Oedipus. Creon also in my opinion had a certain air to him that to me seemed like he wanted to be king, but just didn’t want to show that he did. When there was an opportunity for him to actually seize power he did show some eagerness for someone who so called doesn’t want to be king. Creon is also very honey-tongued and skilled when it comes to the art of manipulation.
Oedipus was a great king, notable for his compassion, his sense of justice, his swiftness of thought, his concern for the well-being of his people and action. Teresias, I will call him the blind prophet or seer , is able to see reality more clearly because of his prophetic powers. He knows that the terrible prophecy of Oedipus will come true , while Teiresias is clear-sighted about reality, Oedipus remains ignorant. In the play, Oedipus the king even though a human being is presented as a prisoner of fate.
It is important to note that both Oedipus and Teresias have no similar point of vue on Oedipus destiny. Also as we read the play we understand that the king has a strong way of dealing with situations, he is always talking about death as a punishment, like it is the only way of dealing with people when they do wrong, or when he think they are doing wrong.
“OEDIPUS: You gave a child to him, —the child he asked you of?
HERDSMAN: I did. 1321 I wish I’d died the day I did.
OEDIPUS: You will unless you tell me truly”( page 18).
“OEDIPUS: Where did you get this child from? Was 1330 it your own or did you get it from another?
HERDSMAN: Not my own at all; I had it from someone.
OEDIPUS: One of these citizens? or from what house?
HERDSMAN: O master, please—I beg you, master, please 1335 don’t ask me more.
OEDIPUS: You’re a dead man if I ask you again ( page 18).
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Souadou, you make interesting observations about the interaction between Oedipus and Teiresias.However, the prompt for the week asks for student to write character analysis of one character.
I choose to analyze the great hero Oedipus. He is loved by many if not all. Oedipus feels a great connection to his people and his people to him. “OEDIPUS: I pity you, children. You have come full of longing, but I have known the story before you told it only too well. I know you are all sick, yet there is not one of you, sick though you are, that is as sick as myself. (lines 65-70).”
Oedipus has been the city’s savior once before, now he is needed again. The great hero ready for the call of duty is willing to do to anything for his people. Now he must find the killer of king Phoebus. “OESIPUS: Who is this man whose fate the God pronounces? CREON: My lord, before you piloted the state, we had a king called Laius. OEDIPUS: I know of him by hearsay. I have not seen him. CREON: The God commanded clearly: let someone punish with force this dead man’s murderers (lines 120-126).” The great hero seems to always be looking forward to the next battle or challenge. When Oedipus is challenged by Teiresias, King Oedipus gets very emotional and acts as of the rug has been taken from under him. Oedipus begins to act flustered and with misplaced anger. Not only to the blind man but all the would-be accusers. Oedipus position changes very fast left with no allies.
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Kevin, I like what you write about Oedipus acting as if the rug has been pulled out from under him. At this point, we see behavior that I think it is a little bit like the “white privilege” people talk about nowadays. He is furious and indignant that someone would challenge him—even someone is believed to be the voice of the gods.
Hello Professor-
Yes very true that is very much like “white privilege ” or King patriarchal privilege. Oedipous has chosen to be close minded when confronted with the truth. Oedipus could of asked Teiresias for help or console. I like to assume many people of Thebes seek Teiresias console and try to understand his words or prophecies.
I know I would of asked for help if in Oedipus sandals. I also understand that many Greek stories like to use extreme examples, they build up a character to be almost perfect and impossible to beat. The Greek stories than humanize the great hero with one or many flaws to remind us of our mortality.
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Kevin,
I love the fact that you mention Oedipus trying to save Thebes once again. He had the total confidence of finding the killer and saving his people to make him feel better of himself. he had zero conscious he was the killer Thebes was looking for. Thebes was in danger because of him. He becomes very furious when he was exposed to the truth. Truly in denial because his intentions was to hep not destroy.
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King Oedipus is a very typically king character. He is brave and courageous. He also is very proud and fond of the city and the people he rules over. I observed this when he said, “My spirit groans for city and myself and you at once” (72-73). He also speaks on how he was willing to do anything to bring back prosperity to his city. He spoke on how he will be the “champion of my country and the God” (165). Not only did he want to do what it took to save his city, he took the extra step and wanted to do it himself. He wanted the glory of accomplishment.
Hey Claire,
I do agree that Oedipus is proud of his city. His heart empathis with what his people are going through. I think thats an amazing quality because leaders often don’t have concern or truly recognize the issues and able to really help with the problem.
Ceron is a loyal, honest, respectable and helpful man. He is the brother of King Oedipus’ wife and someone the King trust. Ceron is loyal to King Oedipus and his city, so loyal when the king sent him to figure out how to save the city, he respects King Oedipus so much when he returns he asks the king if he would like to hear the news in public or in private. He is helpful when he tells King Oedipus who to go see to find answers to help figure out who killed the pervious king. When the King accused him of being a criminal and says he will be punished even if he is his kinsman, Ceron agrees about the punishment but simply asks what is he guilty of. Ceron is honest when the King Oedipus accused him of murder and answered all the King’s questions truthfully. He shows his honesty as well when he explains to the King how stubborn he is and tries to show him the facts the King doesn’t want to see. We see Ceron is a respectable man when he explains to the king how he sees them as equals and how he enjoys the admiration he receives from the people in the city.
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Michaela, your comments about Creon are well taken (make sure you spell characters’ names correctly). When Creon says that he feels an equal to Oedipus, he means that he enjoys equal privileges. Unlike Oedipus, however, he does not have the burden of responsibility. He uses this rationale to show why he would have no reason to want Oedipus’s throne.
In “Oedipus the King”, Oedipus is a main character in the play. During the play he represents a lot of great different personality traits, one that is my favorite is when that he is witty. During a tense discussion with Teiresias and he takes jabs at his for being blind and a fool.
“It has, but for you; it has no strength for you because you are blind in mind and ears as well as in your eyes”. – Oedipus
I kind of chuckled when I read this part because it was witty, clever and a double insult.
Another quality I noticed about Oedipus is that he is very aggressive and no problem telling Teiresias that his days were limited if continued to antagonize him.
“Do you imagine you can always talk like this, and live to laugh at it hereafter?” – Oedipus
To me that shows that he is afraid and with the also exemplifies the passions and concern he shows for his people and how he was willing to go great lengths to try and protect his people.
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Summer, you are the first student I’ve had who has ever found humor in this play. Do you feel that Oedipus says these words to Teiresias in jest? I think you have some interesting ideas in your last, but I don’t quite understand how you are connecting Oedipus’s fear with his passions and concern. The sentence needs a little clarification.
Oedipus seems to hold himself very high but for good reason.He is very confident in himself and at one point saved the city. Oedipus has had to confront this issue where his city is feeling sick and he wants to figure pout how to purge this sickness from the city. He follows his heart and dosent stray away from what he personally believes. This can be seen when once Oedipus accuses Creon of treason no matter what is said to him which just goes back to his confidence or blind stupidity maybe. The further you get through the story the more you realize how hardheaded he really is, even when his wife who seems to be a powerful person in this day due to how everybody respects her. Oedipus still dosent seem to change his mind. What I can conclude so far is that the passion from Oedipus seems to be unmatched regarding his city. but his harshness and hard headed ways seems to make him more and more mad.
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Chad, I like what you say about Oedipus having reason to be proud.He is confident and he has faced the deadly sphinx, saving the city from her wrath.I also appreciate your comment that he follows his heart. His very much ruled by emotion in contrast to Creon. And this emotion does begin to on a negative quality when he is challenged.
Chad, I agree that Oedipus is really full of himself. But if you are full of yourself, you should be able to know everything. Oedipus did not know everything but he thought he did not. Oedipus was a good king but he needed to listen and think carefully before taking decisions.
Mercy, please make sure comments to others meet the length requirement.
Chad, I agree that King Oedipus did hold himself to a very high standard, as he should since he is a King. I think that the bravery he has shown and the confidence is also accompanied by a lack of self esteem, at least thats how I saw it personally… I do also agree about his stubborn-ness he had shown as well.. Overall good response!
I chose to analyze Teiresias, the blind profit. In the short, yet almost turned violent conversation, Teiresias showcases the characteristics of someone who is wise, powerful, and admirable. When king Oedipus called upon Teiresias for answers on who murdered the former king, Teiresias stood his ground. He tried to spare the king by refusing to reveal his vision. He knows the king is ill-fated from the start, and telling the prophecy does not change the future. Even though Teiresias is physically blind, he can see reality clearly. He does not back down from the king, who thinks Teiresias is conspiring against him. He is completely unfazed by the threats and is dedicated to the truth. After being called a liar and being mocked for his blindness, his words prove true. I also gathered that aside from his prophet abilities, he is quiet irritable and impatient with how he says what he has to say, then wanders off.
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Hi Faith, I agree with you, in the story when Tiresias encounters difficulties, he proves that he never gave up to difficulties or death. However he is a blind person, but it cannot stop him become a fearless and impartial. Even if he can’t see, he has the ability to see through others. Maybe he is a prophet. He is a true prophet. The fearless courage is admirable and sigh. He still has a keen awareness enough to overcome difficulties.
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Faith, I like your take on Teiresias, especially what you write in the end about his irritability. Because he knows the truth, people who resist it do irritate and anger him. He is definitely not a warm and fuzzy character. He has nothing to fear, as you write, and he does not fear Oedipus.
Hello Faith,
I definitely feel that Teiresias has an air of wisdom and all-knowingness about him. He certainly strikes me as the stereotypical “ancient mentor” archetype that can be found in any significant work. (Think: Yoda, Gandalf, Dumbledore, etc.) He exudes wisdom, and, as you mentioned, holds great clarity. He seems even-tempered and composed, even in the face of aggression from Oedipus. I definitely noticed these things during the reading, but your post really helped me collect my thoughts and articulate them into words.
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I agree with you Faith. Even thou Teiresias was in story for a short time, he was wise and confident. He was trying to be gentle and wise with his answer to Oedipus but I guess Oedipus was just impatient. I am sure he wanted to tell Oedipus about his tragedy alone and not in front of the people present. A prophet like that should be celebrated. Teiresias, was blind but was aware of what was going on in the city. He insisted on saying the truth, nothing but the truth. But I think he should have told the king the truth in a different manner regardless of Oedipus’s behavior.
Hey Faith, Thank you for your interesting post.
I have to admit that your choice of Teiresias surprised me since he appears only for a short dialog. As you mentioned, the conversation between Teiresias and king Oedipus was short yet meaningful and had an important role in the play. I agree with you saying that Teiresias is a wise man, his ability to “see” the characters clearly, although he is blind, is an amazing gift. During this conversation, Teiresias tells Oedipus the truth, but since it is not what Oedipus wanted to hear, he refuses to believe him. I believe this conversation, and the reason that the blind character is the only one who sees the truth, is a way to show us, the readers, how sometimes in life, we choose to close our eyes in order not to see the truth about things related to us.
Hello Faith, I agree on your take with Teiresias. Like you said, when he was mocked for his blindness, I can see why he chooses to be the better person. Him being unfazed and standing his ground demonstrates the self-control and wisdom Oedipus doesn’t. Since he doesn’t feed off Oedipus’ empty threats, though he could’ve since of old built up anger, he gives off the energy that he’d rather “see” things unfold by themselves.
In the Greek tragedy Oedipus the King, the oedipus is a king which means he has power to control everything of a character. At the beginning of the story, Oedipus is a kind person as you can see he sent his brother Creon to contact the disaster to end this plague. It said: “I sent Menoeceus’ son Creon, Jocasta’s brother, to Apollo,
to his Pythian temple, that he might learn there by what act or word I could save this city”(line 78-82). As prophecies are flying all over the sky, he neither believes in prophecies but he is also avoiding words. He is worried that the appointment will really happen. He deceived himself and thought that it would not happen if he fled, and it still happened. Because he didn’t know that he was raised by others, he thought he was his biological parents. Avoidance will not solve the problem, but it will cause greater harm to him.
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Mei Yan, I appreciate your comments about Oedipus, but I think you are getting ahead of the point in the play we are currently discussing.
In Oedipus the King by Sophocles, oedipus Expressing a lot of mixed emotions. Oedipus the king Arises major conflict climatic action arrives when Tiresias tells oedipus that he’s is responsible for the plague and oedipus refuses to acknowledge it. In this situation oedipus was deeply in denial by Tiresias truth. He also suffered with internal conflict that escalated to external conflict. After the blight that had happened and taken over the fruits, Oedipus felt very remorseful of the situation that was taking place from the blight and he kept within him that he had to fix the problem the priest brought to him of what the place was suffering. His conscience was working on him .
Oedipus the King by Sophocles, teiresias expresses her resentment for Oedipus and it was hard for him to reciprocate that resentment so he Channels it into his own anger because tiresias told him that he’s responsible for a lot of wrong doings . The character of oedipus was very mixed and emotional.
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King Oedipus is a very faithful character in the story. He keeps himself on the right path and doesn’t listen to anyone else he listens to himself and tries to go with his own assumptions. He acres and respect the earning of the kingdom of Thebes. I notice when Oedipus says, “my spirit groans for the city and myself and you alone”. This shows how much protective is he about the people in the city. His understandable towards people, he knows the values and how to use them with people in the city. Inside of himself, he has to empathize and has fear of himself when the father died. He was really concern about the died and was really worried too. But still, he had the confidence to found the real truth behind it and his brave enough too. His wife Jocasta didn’t want to expose the truth behind the death and who actually Oedipus was. However, Oedipus didn’t give up and founded out from the messenger the old man who also, knew the truth. All these show how king Oedipus worthy to be the king for Thebes.
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Oedipus is clearly characterized as someone who has great honor and pride — almost to a fault. In his valiant effort to reveal who killed the former king, his determination and seemingly well-intended loyalty to the city quickly turns into ego and arrogance when he blames Creon and refuses to believe Teiresias’ claim that he is, in fact, the treasonous culprit. His confusion is understandable, however, his closedmindedness and blatant rejection of the idea is not when he begins to point fingers and insult everyone else. It is his close-minded approach, ignorance, and obsessive drive to reveal the murderer that is most evident in his personality. Although, yes, his determination to rid the city of misfortune is characteristically “good”, the method by which he chooses to do so is what condemns him. In this way, his excessive tendencies of dignity, pride, ego, and arrogance will ultimately lead to his downfall (we can assume). It is a tragedy, after all.
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Hi Emily,
Yes, as you mentioned I also think that pride is one of the most significant aspects of his character. (He has good reasons to be proud because in the past he saved the city.) I believe he has a great passion to seek and find the truth. Also, faith played an important role in his decisions both as a man and a king. But other aspects of his character such as his fury caused issues.
It is a great tragedy.
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Hello Emily!
I also agree with you and Afsaneh, Oedipus’s pride plays a huge roll in the play especially like you said “point fingers and blame everyone.” He couldn’t accept the fact that he was the reason the plague was happening in the first place, how could the King, the ruler of the kingdom be the reason for this tragedy? All in all though I do agree with your character analysis of Oedipus.
Thank you,
David
While reading this play, it is clear that Creon – whom we come to understand is the brother in law of king Oedipus, is the most sensible character in the play. He is the first to talk to the king about the ‘murder guilt’ which is destroying their city and must be dealt with. He tells king Oedipus of king Laius who came before him. When king Oedipus is accused by the blind wise profit (Teiresias) of being “the land’s pollution”, and he who murdered the previous king, Oedipus immediately and frantically accuses his brother-in-law of plotting and conspiring against him. We, as the readers, come to understand, as the blind profit mentions, that Oedipus’s blindness (figuratively) angers him. He is fueled with helpless anger over what he cannot yet see, and thus over what he does not yet understand and cannot yet control. When he confronts Creon, Creon remains calm, fearless and filled with “wisdom and self-control” as he states. We, the readers, realize his character is of significance important in the play as he seems to be the only character who is not hot-tempered, one who in contrast to Oedipus’s volatile demeanor, is grounded and level-headed. He seems to be the glue that holds the play together and brings some sense into the story: the one who speaks the truth (one who upholds the will of the gods) and does not seek a crown in order to do so.
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Hi David, I definitely agree with your analysis of Creon as the rational ballast that keeps Oedipus afloat. I believe his presence in the play also serves to amplify Oedipus’s seemingly irrational decisions–in reality, were any of us suddenly accused by an old prophet of tearing our country apart, we would probably react somewhat similarly to the king. Personally, I know I would deny it all, and work hard to find explanations for the situation that don’t include putting my own head on the chopping block. However, by pitting Oedipus and his emotional reaction against Creon’s stoic demeanor, we relate less to the king and find him somewhat immature and unevolved.
“Oedipus: The Citizen King”
I believe Oedipus is the figure of a king in the image of his own people. He feels great sympathy for the pain of his people.
Fate, fury, and pride are the three most bold and important characteristics of Oedipus in my perspective.
In this play, Oedipus’s determination in finding the murderer of Laius caused him to face the terrible truth about his life. I think this represents his faith in truth and his love of his kingdom. The fact that this truth caused him to banish his close friends and relatives (and even himself (not in this portion of the story.) ) shows that truth with all its bitterness is the most valued aspect in king Oedipus’s life.
Below you can see some of the quotes that are the bases of my observation.
“But now, since after all was finished, I became a citizen among you, citizens (line 235,240).”
Oedipus in response to Teiresias “Indeed I am so angry I shall not hold back a jot of what I think. For I would have you know I think you were complotter of the deed and doer of the deed save in so far as for the actual killing. Had you had eyes I would have said alone you murdered him (line 391.)”
Oedipus to Teiresias “Yes, lead him off. So long as you are here, you’ll be a stumbling block and a vexation; once gone, you will not trouble me again” (line 520).
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Creon is an intriguing character that compliments Oedipus the protagonist. I see that Creon is wise, trustworthy, confident, sophisticated and sagacious.My first observation about Creon is being wise. He exhibits that by taking instructions humbly. We can realize that from when Oedipus was telling the priest he sent Creon to Apollo so “that he might learn there by what act or word” Oedipus can save the city. By this, I can see that Creon is trustworthy such that Oedipus trusts him that whatever the Lord of Apollo might tell will be told as it is. Creon was confident in a manner that even when Oedipus accused him of betrayal, he insisted he was not guilty. Creon was intelligent and sophisticated and was able to understand Oedipus’s complicated situation or feeling. Creon handled that rejection or spurn from Oedipus wisely. He exercised self control and did not judge Oedipus and rather tried to understand him. Creon was sagacious in a way that he wanted to know what exactly was going on before passing judgement. I can see that Creon was admired by the king and his people and was even the heir to Oedipus.
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Oedipus is an intelligent and fast-acting man with outstanding leadership qualities. He is
very charismatic, which makes it easier for him to affect Thebes peoples and make them believe he is the hero they have been waiting for, the one to save them from the course that is coming. Although he has all these great qualities, we see further in the play that Oedipus is also a very hasty person with a hot temper, which makes him carless while making decisions. We can see an example of Oedipu’s trust issues and anger in his meeting with Teiresias, the blind fortuneteller of Thebes. During their meeting, Oedipus is asking Teiresias to tell him about the curse and disaster coming on Thebes, but when Teiresias doesn’t tell Oedipus the things he wants to hear, he gets angry and decides not to believe him.
“TEIRESIAS: You blame my temper, but you do not see your own that lives within you; it is me you chide.
OEDIPUS: Who would not feel this temper rise at words like these with which you shame our city?
TEIRESIAS: Of themselves, things will come, although I hide them and breathe no word of them.
OEDIPUS: Since they will come to tell them to me.
TEIRESIAS: I will say nothing further. Against this answer let your temper rage as wildly as you will.”
Oedipus is an example of the classic Greek Tragedy hero, he struggles while dealing with a tragedy and ends up defeated and grief. Although he refuses to hear the truth told to him by his surroundings, in the end, he understands he cannot ignore it anymore. He confesses the murder before Thebes people, telling them he is the one who killed the king and married his mother. He banishes and wishes no person will see him again in his lifetime.
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Hello Shai, you make good points about Oedipus. I believe we can all agree that he was indeed a great leader despite his obstacles and personal struggles. I would like to point out maybe a hidden personality of mental toughness that he may have had. The tragedy in Oedipus’ family with him killing his father and getting married to his mother must have undoubtedly brought public backlash and personal destruction but his ability to rise above that and still lead the land is some mental toughness and strength that should be admired.
Hey Shai, I agree with your character analysis of Oedipus. From the reading, I, too, gathered that he is also a “hasty person with a hot temper!”. Just from his exchange with Teiresias, we see how he struggled with hearing the truth and almost turned violent. I haven’t read the entire play; however, I am pleased to know that in the end, Oedipus has to face his demons and come clean, confessing his wrongdoings to the people of Thebes.
While reading Oedipus the King we meet several interesting characters, including Oedipus the king of Thebes, Teiresias an old prophet, and Creon the brother of Oedipus’ wife. These three characters have an interesting back and forth with one another making very good points of the situation currently taking place in Thebes. Of all the characters though I found Oedipus to be a rather interesting character who stands out above the rest, for he lets his true colors show multiple times, giving the reader a broad scope of his emotions and thoughts pertaining to the matter at hand. In several outbursts of his we see denial, jealousy, begging, self righteousness and blame. I will touch upon several of these themes as they are presented in the story.
I first noticed the self righteous nature of this character when in lines 158 – 165 he says “you will see in me an ally, a champion of my country and the God” and that “so helping the dead king i help myself” this shows us that at the end of the day Oedipus is mostly worried about his image as a great king in Thebes and that he believes he is a great king.
Oedipus craves control and is more than willing to resort to begging as he does with Teiresias in lines 350 – 352 when trying to coax the truth from Teiresias lips he states these lines “For Gods sake if you know of anything, do not turn from us; all of us kneel to you, all of us here, your suppliants” in this begging that Oedipus commits for an answer we see how desperate he can be, we see he does not have patience and instead begs for what he wants like a child.
When Oedipus learns the truth that he is the reason for the kings death he denies it and is quick to blame another party, this is displayed in lines 441-443 when Oedipus tells Teiresias “i think you will be sorry, both you and your accomplice for your plot to drive me out.” In this he blames Creon and Teiresias for making a wicked lie against him, when in reality he is in denial to the truth. This also brings us back to the self righteous nature of Oedipus, sure he’s big talk when it is the other who committed the crime, but quick to backstep and blame others when blamed himself.
The characters in this story show a wonderful range of emotion and personification. It is no wonder this classic has stood the test of time.
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Hey James!
I believe that the majority thought that that Oedipus sands out above the rest. Although he in fact stood out, I decided to write about Creon. I found Creon to be calm, fearless and filled with “wisdom and self-control” as he states. His most noticeable characteristic is his sensibility. He in many ways bring the plot and characters together to build this whole story. My favorite part of your post is that you mentioned that this play has stood the test of time. I completely agree with you on that, and find it so interesting to read old stories that shape movie/novels in present time. It is truly amazing what great writing can create. Thank you for your post.
– David
Hi James,
I agree with what you said, especially regarding Oedipus letting his true colors show. He does show a childish like impulse as well when he demands the prophet to speak, despite the prophet’s clear reluctance. He is also quick to make accusations and threats as you said. One thing I’d like to add is that he is also acting on self-preservation, as shown through his reasoning for his hasty actions in lines 720-723. Although he shows care to his people’s troubles, he also is vulnerable to human nature in which he feels the need to protect himself (whether he is in the right or not).
-Johnson
Hello, I will be discussing Creon who is second in command in Thebes and the brother in law of King Oedipus. What we learn about Creon is that he is loyal, smart and understanding. These three characteristics define Creon as a person. I believe that he is trustworthy and loyal due to the reason that the King ( Oedipus) sent him to figure out how to end the plague in Thebes, that is not a task you give to just anyone in the kingdom. I also see that Creon is understanding, him being family and all with the king, when he returns with the news of how to cure the plague, he doesn’t blame and judge Oedipus but tries to understand and help. Even when Oedipus, I would say yells at Creon, he remains calm and self controlled. He does things out of love and respect and doesn’t expect reward in return one could say. Creon in my opinion is almost the opposite of Oedipus, the play shows us how the two are alike in someways but very different in others.
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Hello David Klebana, i really liked your write up on Oedipus. I focused mainly on Oedipus for my writing so it was nice to read your post and think about Creon more deeply. I never realized how Creon was being so understanding and good to Oedipus after finding out he was the cause for the issues in Thebes before reading your post. Creon very well could have got and raised an angry mob, But instead came to Oedipus first in his time of need. I will need to focus on the family dynamic more as we continue further into this play. thanks!
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Oedipus has the qualities of a good ruler who recognizes what his people need. He is quick to take action, even before his subjects have even spoken to him. This is shown when the priest tells him of the plights of his people, and he has already sent Creon to the shrine of Apollo to receive advice on how to handle the situation.
He is also confident in his decision making, and rightfully so, as shown by his people’s support of him as well as his previous success in saving the city.
However, with the confidence that comes with being the king of Thebes, Oedipus also tends to act on impulse and makes decisions without having all of the facts. One example of this is how he is quick to accuse his brother-in-law Creon of plotting against him, as well as how he does not hesitate to threaten both Creon and Tiresias. His reason for acting in a quick manner is because if there were someone who were plotting against him, hesitation can be deadly (as shown in lines 720-723). “When he that plots against me secretly moves quickly, I must quickly counterplot. If I wait taking no decisive measure his business will be done, and mine be spoiled.” But just as hesitation can be harmful, acting without proper consideration can also be detrimental.
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King Oedipus is very rash and impatient but I believe he is still honest and has good intentions. From the beginning, it is clear that this man is completely devoted to the wellbeing of his city. He shows great empathy for his people and refuses to hide anything from them “Speak it to all; the grief I bear, I bear it more for these than for my own hear.” (106-108). He even includes himself in the sentencing of the murderer, “If with my knowledge he lives at my hearth I pray that I myself may feel my curse.” (270-271). When Teiresias refuses to share what he knows, Oedipus quickly gets frustrated and starts yelling instead of trying to be rational and understanding why Teiresias refuses. When Teiresias finally gives in and tells Oedipus that he is the murderer of King Laius, he refuses to believe it and changes his view on Teiresias, slandering his honesty and calling him a fake, “it has no strength for you because you are blind in mind and ears as well as in your eyes.” (428-430). I found this to be very immature for a king, he forces Teiresias to speak but then refuses to consider what he is saying and quickly dumps the blame on Creon without a second thought. But, I don’t think he did this to conceal his guilt. In fact, I think he seems a little confused himself about the validity of this accusation when he hesitates for a moment while asking Creon when Laius died, “How long ago is it since Laius. . . .” (644). I believe Oedipus is a benevolent king who only wants to do what is right but he is impulsive and arrogant which causes a lot of chaos.
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Hi Zubaida! , I completely agree with you. King Oedipus does show traits of being very rash and impatient, but i do think its mainly because he just wants to protect his country very much. It’s kind of similar to strict parent, like how there hard and rash with there kid, but he mostly have good intentions.
Osamende, please be sure replies to others meet the length requirement. Thanks!
Just like every other tragic hero, Oedipus has his own tragic flaws and such other characteristics, which directly cause his downfall. Firstly, on analysis of the text, one can see that Oedipus possessed excessive pride. As a result, he was blinded by this pride and it led him to believe that he could escape his fate. The arrogance he developed from solving the riddle of Sphinx was too much and Oedipus fails to realize the damage ultimately caused to hisself. Oedipus is blinded to the extent that he cannot see what is in front of his eyes as compared to the blind Tireseas who not only sees but also foresees. Furthermore, it is Oedipus misunderstanding that he can escape fate, which ultimately leads him to making several decisions to avoid his fate, but ironically, ends in him playing right into it. Another characteristic is his short-temperedness and anger, which determine his ultimate demise. Oedipus kills Laius at the crossroads only because he becomes furious for a moment, as he is not allowed passage. However, despite knowing his fate, he still does not stop a moment to think. Another negative quality of Oedipus is his unwillingness to listen to other people and to listen only to himself. This is highlighted from Oedipus’ stubbornness as well as determination to find out the truth behind who killed Laius. However despite objections from Jocasta and Tireseas.
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Hi Isis,
You are giving a very good description of Oedipus. As we can see Oedipus is a weak leader in his kingdom. When he is a misunderstanding that he can escape fate. He thinks that he has power and he can do whatever he wants. He does not listen to people he becomes angry when he listens to people. When a leader is angry it is more difficult for him to take decisions and to treat others.
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I find Tiresias to be one of the most interesting characters in Oedipus Rex, and one I believe to be misunderstood both by the characters in part one of the play and, at times, by the audience. Tiresias is, as most soothsaying characters tend to be, a testament to the unwavering path of time–proof that all is predetermined and one cannot fight their fate. Not only does he personally believe that, as he explains to Oedipus when refusing to tell his fortune, but his life proves it to be true as well. Despite being frustrated with how little he gains from telling fortunes, Tiresias is stuck in his fortune-telling role due to his talents, as well as his blindness, which prevents him from seeking out another path.
Tiresias is also a unique character in that he has, in some ways, more power in the world than even the king. He has far more knowledge about the world than Oedipus, and the fact alone that he can deny the king his wishes shows how much respect he is owed. Even in a dying kingdom, as King Oedipus berates him, Tiresias knows his worth and tries his best to protect the king from himself.
Because of his reluctance to explain the situation to Oedipus, I believe Tiresias also cares far more than people credit him. Were he truly the traitorous, callous old man the king originally takes him for, he would not think twice about spilling the proverbial beans. Tiresias knows far more than Oedipus does and recognizes the futility of his attempt to protect the king, but he never becomes jaded by the situation. He is frustrated, almost to the point of despondency, by his lack of ability to change Oedipus’s predetermined fate.
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Kia, it’s very interesting what you write about Teiresias also being locked into his own fate. How terrible it must be to be gifted as a soothsayer, knowing all the terrible truths and being unable to change a thing. He knows there is no cure for escaping of Oedipus’s fate.
Tiresias is the blind prophet of Thebes appears in Oedipus the King. Someone who represents the same power, the truth rejected by a voluntary and proud king, almost the personification of Fate itself. the blind soothsayer of Thebes, appears in both Oedipus the King and Antigone. In Oedipus the King, Tiresias tells Oedipus that he is the murderer he hunts, and Oedipus did not believe him. In Antigone, Tiresias tells Creon that Creon himself is bringing caos upon Thebes, and Creon does not believe him. Both Oedipus and Creon claim to trust Tiresias deeply. The literal blindness of the soothsayer points to the metaphorical blindness of those who refuse to believe the truth about themselves when they hear it spoken. Tiresias comes to Oedipus against his will, not wanting to explain the meaning of the oracle to the king, but he goes freely to Creon in Antigone, with news of his own presage. In both cases, however, after a courteous greeting, Tiresias meets with insults and rejection. Never surprised by abuse, Tiresias does not back down when threatened. True to the gift of prophetic power, he stands unflinching before the fury of kings. His speech may be barbed, his message horrifying, but Tiresias’ dedication to the truth is uncompromising. For his suffering, his devotion, and his devotion to prophetic truth, Tiresias emerges as a powerful and even admirable character in the Oedipus Trilogy.
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Hi Jeidy,
Tiresias the soothsayer is a good character to describe. I like that you mention that either Oedipus and Creon refuse to belive what he said. When Tiresias was talking to Oedipus they were arguing because the king refuse to belive that he was the murderer. The king wanted to keep researching who was the murder because they have to punish the murder in order to be rescued.
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Jeidy, you provide a really interesting point, and point out something that I feel is very important. When Tiresias makes the very bold claim that Oedipus is the real blind one and the real murderer, he is shocked. After all, he’s the one leading the crusade to find the killer of Laius and once again bring proper to the land of Thebes and his people. On top of that, he’s the only one in the room with the physical ability to see. But what we realize is that Tiresias is not talking about a physical blindness, but a metaphorical blindness. The inability to see the truth since Oedipus is so shaped by his own self pride. That’s what I think is the most important point in this reading.
I choose the character Oedipus because he is a tragic hero. Oedipus had faced many things in life, but most of all he faced his own fate that led him to be killed by his father and marry his mother. . This is an example of how the protagonist’s actions are influenced by fate, in the beginning of the play, Oedipus was born into a noble family. He was brought up with a strong sense of morals and values. He thought that it is better to be good than evil. He was brought up with a strong sense of morals and values. He thought that it is better to be good than evil. He believes that he will achieve his destiny and become a great ruler. After Oedipus became king he wanted to find out the murderer of Laius, he sent Creon to message the oracle to the numberer. When Oedipus learns about the Polybus and Merope are not his real parents. His real parents are Laius and Jocasta who were married to their son. Oedipus learned about murdering his own father and marrying his own mother. Oedipus wanted to kill Jocasta but it was too late when he returned home and saw she killed herself. He rakes his eyes so that he can’t no longer distress what he has done. I like the character of Creon in this story.
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My mistake wrote this sentence twice, sorry Professor. ” He was brought up with a strong sense of morals and values. He thought that it is better to be good than evil. He was brought up with a strong sense of morals and values. He thought that it is better to be good than evil”.
Humayra, no problem!
Hi Humayra,
In my opinion Oedipus was very self determined. He knew exactly what he wanted but very clueless about his truth. When he was exposed to the truth he had two options. One accepting he was in the wrong of what he did and number two, keep being “clueless” not accepting his truth fate. Oedipus was denying himself. Slowly he exposed his true self. He is a king for the people in the beginning of the play but towards the ending section he was being arrogant.
In the Kindom governed by the King Oedipus, all of their habitats were suffering. This suffering because a king was killed and they have to find the murder and punish in order to stop their suffering. When King Oedipus was talking to Teiresias to find out who was the murder, Teiresias confessed to him that he was the murder but Oedipus didn’t believe him. We can see that king Oedipus is a weak leader when he didn’t believe Teiresias that was a soothsayer. King Oedipus also became very angry when he was talking to other people and sometimes he didn’t even listen to them. As we can see this is an authoritarian government that doesn’t hear his community his town. He believes that he has the whole power over his community.
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Miguel, yes Oedipus is authoritarian. That is what a king is. But do you not believe that he genuinely cares for his people and suffers with them as they deal with the plague? It is also interesting that you see him as weak in his interaction with Teiresias. I wonder how others feel abut this interesting thought.
In this play, Oedipus is a man who takes his position of king very seriously, but allows his emotional attachments to situations and his sense of duty to control his emotions in a way that becomes very volatile. We see from the beginning when he sees the priest with the children of the court as he sees them in their suppliants. He immediately reassures them to put faith in him, the King of Thebes, first before even the gods they worship. He already sets up immediately the way he views himself, and how we wishes for his subjects to see him. When he learns of the murder of the king Laius, in his quest for justice, he vows to strip the wrongdoer of all of their humanity with all the power he has in him. He states that he will ensure that the citizens shun him to any and all extents, and ensures that those who don’t obey him will be cursed with bad fortune for the rest of their lives. Later when he believes that Tiresias has information on his murder, he becomes increasingly irate with him. He resorts to implying him as complicit, and possibly a culprit in his murder, he mocks his blindness, all causing Tiresias to point out Oedipus’s own flaws. At one point, he’s also eager to execute Creon, who he accuses of murdering Laius. Even the chorus has to step into to prevent that from happening.
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Caleb,
That’s a great point. The reason Oedipus acts so impulsively sometimes is probably because of his uncontrollable strong emotions for his city and responsibility as king. He is very passionate about his city and his people but his emotions seem to get the best of him. It seems though like the priest and the people of the city have nothing but respect for him. That shows that he has served as a great king and maybe sometimes his strong emotions have helped him be that.
Hi Caleb,
You really have an interesting point here, I really liked how you mentioned “ Oedipus is a man who takes his position of king very seriously, but allows his emotional attachments to situations and his sense of duty to control his emotions in a way that becomes very volatile”. Oedipus was very well- known for his ability at manipulating people into believing he was the son of Polybus because they believed that it was true. He also had many other traits that made him a great leader. Oedipus’ leadership skills were very good as well. He was able to lead people with confidence and courage.
Caleb, I am so glad you mention the role of the chorus. The Chorus represents the people, and they are alarmed when their King defies the gods by disparaging Teiresias, who is their voice. People become frightened when respected institutions and belief systems are questioned. We can see this in our own country today, I think.
I will be analyzing the character King Oedipus. King Oedipus shows a trait of selflessness,courage, drive, strength and determination. He defeated the sphinx and saved his country from danger. It shows that he will fight for his country no matter the problem. Its just what any great king will do. As stated in “Oedipus the King” on page 3, Oedipus says “I will bring this to light again. Phoebus Fittingly took this care about the dead, and you too fittingly. And justly you will see in me an ally, a companion of my country and the God. For when I drive pollution from the land I will not serve a distant friends advantage, but I act my own interest”. This shows that oedipus is driven and determined to free his country from this pollution at all costs. You can also tell he is a great king, due to the fact that he has loyal servants(for example the priests and his brother creon).
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hi Osamendae, I agree that King Oedipus showed his determination, courage and strength with helping his people. But he also showed hi weakness which was his pride that caused him to be blinded.
Creon seemed like the voice of reason compared to a very suspicious King Oedipus. He placed his life on the line to prove to Oedipus just how confident he was in his innocence. “Go to the oracle at Pytho and inquire about the answers, 705 if they are as I told you. For the rest, if you discover that I laid any plot together with the seer, kill me, I say, not only by your vote but by my own.” [Sophocles 705]. Creon also tried to reason with Oedipus by stating that he didn’t yearn for the authority that comes with being a King but the wealth and good fortune associated with being royalty. “I was not born with such a frantic yearning to be a king—but to do what kings do.” [685]. Lastly, Creon tries to reason with Oedipus saying that although he doesn’t wan the role of King he would much rather live lives as a King that could sleep comfortably rather than one that would have to be wary of is surroundings in fear of retaliation for past wrongdoings. “Consider, first, if you think any one would choose to rule and fear rather than rule and sleep untroubled by a feat if power were equal in both cases.” [681].
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Hi Richard,
I think you bring up some great points about Creon’s loyalty to not only the King, but to the truth as well. It doesn’t appear that he wishes the downfall of the Oedipus, more so to bring the King to a peaceful realization of the facts hes learned. As you state in Creon’s willingness to render himself vulnerable to whatever judgment comes, he hopes to persuade the Oedipus of his trustworthiness. He almost seems like a better candidate for King than Oedipus himself.
Oedipus the King is a Greek play written by Sophocles. It tells the story of a horrific plague that has overcome the city of Thebes and the shocking change of events that unfolded. For my character analysis, I decided to choose Oedipus. Immediately I can detect that Oedipus is a compassionate king, he gives off an intense love for his city and his people. When told about the plague that has been roaming the city of Thebes by the Priest. Oedipus responds by confirming that he’s already sent out Creon, his brother in law to go and address things with the oracle of Apollo. This agility shows Oedipus’ genuine concern about Thebes. The King also shows empathy with his people who are sick and speaks to them with words of encouragement. Oedipus isn’t only compassionate with his city and people but also with the law of the city. Once it became known that Laius’ murderer hasn’t been caught and still resides in the city it bothered Oedipus deeply, he then vowed to then take action to help save his city. This deep compassion and bravery are what make Oedipus’ character even more compelling.
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From the very beginning of the play, Oedipus comes off as someone who is very confident with himself and his actions. Though it may portray him as someone who knows it all, the confidence definitely makes him a great ruler. While the priest is there with all the people begging for help from the plague, it’s easy to say that Oedipus cares about them because just as Creon arrives with the news, he wants everyone to hear what’s truly happening. “OEDIPUS: Speak it to all; the grief I bear, I bear it more for these than for my own hear.” (lines 106-108) This will give the people a sense of security for any possible solutions to get rid of the plague. Even though he does show he’s a great leader, when he accuses Creon of trying to take the throne, it shows that he’s insecure in a way. “OEDIPUS: When he that plots against me secretly moves quickly, I must quickly counterplot.” (lines 720-721) It’s important to understand that he’s always ready for the next move and that’s what makes him insecure but also a great King.
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It is well known that to be a leader of a state in Ancient Greece one must have possessed a variety of personal skills and a charisma such as those of a good warrior, politician, diplomat, orator, intellectual, etc. For the character of Oedipus, I would distinguish above all his abilities of a great orator and diplomat. He was able to use a convincing language to make people believe that he was the responsible leader they needed, the right one. In these following verses we can notice his oratorical skills:
“I pity you, children. You have come full of longing,
but I have known the story before you told it
only to well. I know you are all sick,
yet there is not one of you, sick though you are,
that is as sick as myself.” (66-70) and
“His face is bright. O holy Lord Apollo,
Grant that his news too may be bright for us
and bring us safety.” (89-91)
Another thing I detected in his character is his egocentric part of a typical modern politician who is ready to sacrifice the people and the country for his personal career. As the events occur, we realize that he is willing to accept anything but his own guilt and when it comes to his position being endangered he will fight back irrationally to silence the truth speakers. His anger escalates in these verses:
Teiresias: I say you are the murderer of the king
whose murderer you seek.
Oedipus: Not twice you shall say calumnies
like this and stay unpunished.
Teiresias: Shall I say more to Tempt your anger more?
Oedipus: As much as you desire;
It will be said in vain (415-421).
So, Oedipus who once trusted the knowledgeable old prophet, Teiresias and begged him for help, now attacks his dignity to the fullest for speaking the truth:
“Oedipus: It has, but not for you; It has no strength
for you because you are blind in mind and ears
as well as in your eyes.” (428-430).
I think that Oedipus can not separate his own fortune from the one of his country, therefore he resembles more a negative character than a true leader.
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Armend, I very much appreciate the connection you draw between Oedipus and modern day leaders, especially with respect to the issue of truth. In our country today, we are in a plague that has become utterly politicized. Concern for the safety of citizens has become entangled in the struggle by politicians grasping to gain or hold on to power. There are so many other comparisons that can be drawn between this play and our current times. I think this timelessness is one of the marks of a great work of literature.
In ”Oedipus the King” I choose the character Jocasta the queen of Thebes and the wife to King Oedipus. Jocasta is an emotionally complex character. Jocasta does not have much care for those that predict the future and with a ”que sera” attitude she believes that life is more chance than it is foreseeable. While speaking to Oedipus about the falsehood of oracles, Jocasta says, ”So clear in this case were the oracles, so clear and false. Give them no heed, I say; What God discovers need of, easily he shows to us himself” (834-835). Jocasta despite having her doubts about the oracles, she still tries her best to assist Oedipus in his paranoia. Jocasta is protective towards Oedipus and eerily maternal towards him as throughout Oedipus’s worries, she pleads with him to enjoys his life rather than be stuck trying to figure out the validity of prophecy. However, when Jocasta begins to realize the prophecy has come true, she further pleads with Oedipus saying, ”I beg you-do not hunt this out-I beg you if you have any care for your own life. What I am suffering is enough…It is because I wish you well that I give you this counsel- and it’s the best counsel…O Oedipus, God help you! God keep you from the knowledge of who you are! (1207-1223). Jocasta commits suicide in a final protective attempt to save Oedipus from knowing the truth of his origin. choosing to die with it.
Syndoll Clarke
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The Greek Tragedy, Oedipus the King, has many sophisticated and well-formed characters, one of them is Oedipus, King of Thebes. Oedipus is an admirable man due to his determination, his commitment to truth and justice, and his strive to be a good king for the people of Thebes. Oedipus’ determination could be seen during the plague, he was set to finding the truth behind Laius’ murder when he learned that the murder was the reason for the plague. Oedipus’s determination could also be seen in his commitment to truth and justice. Even though he was warned by the blind prophet Tiresias that the truth of Laius’ murder would be unpleasant, Oedipus continued to seek the truth. This shows Oedipus’s courageous commitment to truth and justice. Oedipus was a good and just king, due to the fact that he stopped at nothing to discover who was behind the murder of Laius for the people of Thebes. Also because Oedipus judged everyone, including himself, fairly, shown by the fact that he blinded and exiled himself as punishment for the murder of Laius.
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Oedipus is a person who is loyal and has pride. He is compassionate (for example, whenever people are unwell, he shows up). He strikes me as someone who puts others before him. He’s a great ruler, he’s confident. However when he got into a conflict with Teiresias it showed his fear of having nobody on his side. He’s also quite hardheaded and will do whatever it takes to have his way. I admire his empathy for others and isn’t the stereotypical ruler, he shows a more softer side and helps others.
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Thahina, please be careful to meet length requirements.
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I would like to focus on Teiresias. His role as seer seems to be a complex one. Most if not all seers I’ve seen portrayed in film and literature, whether it be Greek or Norse, all have a similar proclivity to abstain from argument with whom they converse; usually holding a persona of holier than thou. For Teiresias I see him taking a more human role or opinion of himself, displayed even in his very first statement “Alas, how terrible is wisdom when it brings no profit to the man that’s wise!”. He is immediately observing an error in his ways before anything else. Proclaiming that what he knows has transpired, and what he knows is about to transpire in this conversation will (so far as the reading to this point has led me to believe) be for all for the worse for those entangled. I hope I don’t overstate my interest in this first remark by Teiresias, I feel it’s the door to his approach to everything else he says. Shortly after he then says, “I will not bring to light of day my troubles, mine—rather than call them yours.”, which adds to the complexity I mentioned because, most seers I’ve seen portrayed don’t chose lets say martyrdom. This isn’t to say I’ve never read or watched a seer hold back information, I have, but not for the purpose of sparing others hurt.
There’s a lot to be flushed out from with this character, but I will end with the observation of his unexpected change to emotional discharge, as I see it, furthering his likeness to more human than all-knowing seer. As he initially fought to stay silent “I will not bring this pain upon us both…” and “Why is it you question me and waste your labor?”, we read soon after in what I see as a emotional response to OEDIPUS’s relentless demands, “Shall I say more to tempt your anger more?”
Hi Patrick! I think your character analysis of Teiresias is quite accurate. His character is definitely complex, but respectable. I think your observation that he does not act as if his “persona [is] holier than thou” is a great way to explain his role in this tragedy. I also find his relationship between him, Oedipus, and Creon fairly entertaining as both Oedipus and Creon clearly have their strong dislikings of Teiresias but claim to have a tremendous amount of trust towards him.
Oedipus whos self assurance as a great ruler and pride in it is felt heavily throughout the story. When reading through the beginning we see him go see his people who he seems to care deeply for since he had stated he didn’t want to here it from his messenger and we even hear it from his Priest who praises him as the equivalent of a god and even says to him that his people trust him so much that they do not blame him and even believe that he will save them all from the plague and famine ravishing there land in which fuels his determination throughout the story. Though this may be true Oedipus negatives come to light as the story continues, we can see that clearly his is in fact intelligent but his arrogance still overshadows his greatest traits which we end up seeing at the middle of the story when the prophet appears and would come to speak bad of him in which instead of taking the warning seriously he grows angry. So we see now that Oedipus is intelligent, wise and proud but his arrogance would overshadow this and eventually lead him to a truth that should of never been found out.
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Oedipus is a unique character who shows strength in the beginning of the play to ruthless and determination . The strength comes from his willingness to help his people get through there sickness. He doesn’t show any weakness towards displaying his emotions. He shows he is capable leader trying to do his best for his citizens. But as the story goes on Oedipus starts to have trust issues with Creon and Telresias since he is being challenged. The fear of him losing his throne made him commit terrible actions that would later have consequences. By killing Ceron and Telresias it shows that fear played a huge factor , but it also showed that he was determined to do anything within his power to enact actions that would benefit him from losing his power. His character turned a full 360 and it showed us that his true intentions was to keep his power as long as he can.
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After reading “Oedipus the king” by David Grene, The character I analyzed was Oedipus. Oedipus has shown a lot of characteristics throughout the reading. Some characteristics being prideful, noble, and empathetic towards his people. He is the type of King that would do anything for his people. This was clear when the character Creon was telling Oedipus about what the Gods told him(Creon) a way to get rid of the plague effecting Oedipus’s people. The message from the Gods was that a man named Laius, who was the previous king before Oedipus, had been murdered and his killers needed to be punished. Oedipus at this time was getting as much information out of Creon that he needed. Then in lines 161-171, it becomes clear that Oedipus would do anything to save his people when he said. ” OEDIPUS: I will bring this to light again. King Phoebus fittingly took this care about the dead, and you to fittingly. And justly you will see in me an ally, 165 a champion of my country and the God. For when I drive pollution from the land I will not serve a distant friend’s advantage, but act in my own interest. Whoever he was that killed the king may readily 170 wish to dispatch me with his murderous hand; so helping the dead king I help myself”.
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Oedipus is an amazing character. The way he carries himself is very independent and very prideful and holds his head up high. Oedipus has a very strong ego and knows what to do under pressure and knows how to handle situations responsibly. Anything that comes his way he knows how to deal with any accusation. Oedipus always looks at the bigger picture in my opinion. Not only does he look at himself being king, he realizes he cares more about the city’s people then he does for his own needs and greeds.
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“Oedipus the King”
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Teiresias is a blind prophet that knows the truth of Oedipus and his tragedy. He is a well-respected prophet that is wise and truthful to himself. His blindness did not determine his intelligence. Teiresias knows he should keep quiet to himself to avoid any situation.” I have escaped; the truth is what I cherish and that’s my strength, line 405” Teiresias words are very powerful and was unknow by Oedipus. Oedipus was clueless of what was going on, he was in denial of what Teiresias was telling him. “Was this your own design or Creon’s?, line 440 Teiresias is a someone who is blind by sight but is not blind to the world around him. He is independent and humble to no other person but to his truth. Teiresias is a courageous character in the play who went against the king’s will but brave enough to defend himself as well. In the play Teiresias is the one is bind physically but Oedipus is the one is blind to his own truth. He had killed his unknown father and married his own mother. Fate followed him to Thebes even when he tried to escape.
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I find King Oedipus very impulsive and uptight but I think that he is still even-handed and very thoughtful in what he does. From the start I notice he wants what is best for his city, he is willing to do anything for it. He is very understanding with his people and tries to take action as soon as possible. One impulsive action he did was to claim that his brother-in-law was doing something against and he did not hesitate to take action against him. In (720-723), “When he that plots against me secretly moves quickly, I must quickly counterplot. If I wait taking no decisive measure his business will be done, and mine be spoiled.” Acting like this can get some harm and the lack of evidence can also affect them badly.
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In “Oedipus the King” by Sophocles, Creon is the brother-in-law of Oedipus. Creon’s personality is well-mannered, level-headed, and professional. Creon portrays his character as responsible, honest, and honorable – Creon is basically the protagonist. He genuinely tries to assist Oedipus with taking care and protecting Thebes by relaying information of “pollution” in Thebes, provided to him by the oracles. Creon clearly shows his respects to the city, his family, and the Gods, all while still trying to maintain a respectful relationship with Oedipus, who couldn’t be further from the opposite of Creon. He does not just portray himself as bureaucratic, but as someone who holds Oedipus accountable for his positioning as King. He speaks candidly to Oedipus, regardless of whether or not it is something that Oedipus wants to hear. He is not afraid to challenge Oedipus by upholding his moral obligations, even when he is accused of treason. Creon still maintains composure and collectiveness by calming denying such blasphemy and explaining why the accusations are known to be false.
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In Oedipus the King by Sophocles, Oedipus can be seen as kind and hard-headed king. These are not bad traits at all. Oedipus is completely blind to fact that he is leading himself to his own doom. Oedipus wants to do what is best for his country and that is evident from the moment he becomes king. Oedipus is a very prideful person and he will make sure that he get things done. If he were not able to do things, then it would damage his very strong and large ego.
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