Oedipus the King: Quote 2

Quote

the crown the city gave me – I never sought it,

they laid it in my hands … Creon

… So hungry to overthrow me

he sets this wizard on me, this scheming quack,

this fortune-teller peddling lies, eyes peeled

for his own profit. (436-442)

Analysis

During Oedipus and Tiresias’ argument, when Oedipus declares that Creon wants to overthrow him and sends Tiresias as an accomplice, Oedipus demonstrates concern for his own authority, which is a common occurrence in the play. For example, one of the first instances of Oedipus’ concern is demonstrated when Oedipus discusses with Creon the assassin of King Laius stating, “whoever killed the king may decide to kill me too”(158). In the chosen expert (436-442) one explanation of Oedipus’ concern over his authority is his belief that he is not royal blood, and that he “never sought” to become king, but rather the citizens of Thebes “laid” kingship on him. By believing this, Oedipus feels insecure about his position of authority and feels out of place and underserving to be a king. This insecurity is a sudden change for Oedipus, for he was previously boasting of how deserving and qualified he was to be a leader. Another possible explanation for Oedipus expressing his worry is his impulsive behavior and rash decisions demonstrated throughout his argument with Tiresias. When Tiresias refused to share any information about the plague, Oedipus quickly became angry and instead of attempting to get information in a kingly and honorable manner, restored to insulting Tiresias. In addition to providing an explanation to his worries, Oedipus calling Tiresias a “scheming quack” who has no supernatural abilities, introduces a very radical idea. In Ancient Greece, oracles and other fortunetellers where highly respected and considered very sacred as they were the messengers of the gods. When Oedipus discredits Tiresias, he is discrediting a highly respected person, bringing into question if the gods’ words are set in stone. This radical question is brought up many times later in the play, and is ultimately answered by the outcome of the story.

Reaction

From Oedipus’ argument with Tiresias I lost respect for Oedipus because of his lack of self-control. While I understand Oedipus’ frustration with Tiresias’ unwillingness to cooperate during a time of crisis, I believe his actions were unprofessional as it was inappropriate for him to insult such a well-respected man and come to a quick conclusion regarding his closest official, Creon. Also Oedipus’ responses to Tiresias caused me to question the effectiveness of Oedipus as a leader. From his responses I can determine that Oedipus has a lack of self-confidence and self-control. Without these qualities Oedipus cannot carry out or defend crucial decisions or form allies, thereby is unable to function as an effective leader. Upon realizing these characteristics, I wonder if the Thebans have also noticed these characteristics and if so, do they have complete trust in Oedipus.

Citation

Sophocles. Oedipus the King. The Three Theban Plays. Trans. Robert Fagles. New York: Penguin Classics, 1984. Print.