�PAGE � �PAGE �4�
September 9, 2007
Universal character traits in Oedipus the King
In Sophocles play, Oedipus the King, there are many themes universal to all
humans. The main character, Oedipus, exhibits traits that humans possess and covet. We
do not wish to kill our father and marry our mother, but we can relate metaphorically to
his situation. We relate to the broad range of emotions he displays and his reaction in
various situations.
Oedipus mistakenly thinks he can change his fate by using his intelligence.
Ironically, it is his intelligence that causes him to (literally) blind himself. Oedipus is a
good person who ultimately succumbs to his fate through his temperament, intelligence,
and pride. We can see from the beginning that Oedipus is good person but extremely
proud and also a little vain:
Oh my children, the new blood of ancient Thebes, why are you here?
Huddling at my altar, praying before me, your branches wound in wool.
Cadmus Sowing the Dragon's teeth, by Maxfield Parr...
This image was first published in the 1 st (1876&n...
Oedipus and the Sphinx of Thebes, Red Figure Kylix...Our city reeks with the smoke of burning incense, rings with the cries for
the Healer and wailing for the dead. I thought it wrong, my children, to
hear the truth from others, messengers. Here I am myself-you all know me,
the world knows my fame: I am Oedipus. (1-9)
This is a great introduction to Oedipus the man. His true character is revealed
right in the opening scene. He loves his people. I picture him standing central to the
crowd. His people are looking upon him with adoration and hope in their eyes. They are
praying to him like a god. Oedipus likes this adoration. He has let it go to his head that
it was his intelligence that saved the city.
It seems Oedipus is being a good leader and a decent man...