Edipus Is To Blame

In Sophocles's Oedipus Tyrannus, Oedipus plays the lead character in the play. Oedipus plays blindfolded throughout the play. His character that he betrays is typical of those who honestly believe they have no part in the situation that occurs. I agree that Oedipus is responsible for the tragic outcome of the play. Oedipus's investigation of the death of King Laius is the reason for the tragic ending. The scene where Oedipus opens the investigation is the first step toward his downfall. Oedipus covers up the murder and is nervous when he hears the news. It is Oedipus's continuous effort to find the murderer. He wants to find the murderers of the king, not knowing that he is the murderer. Oedipus is the head investigator for the murder of King Laius. Even though he tells the people of Thebes that, "I am ready to help." He promises the people that he would do anything to find the murderers of Laius. Trying to seek all knowledge of the situation, Oedipus requests the presence of the servant that was pardoned. The servant not knowing the request has arrived to give Oedipus some shocking news about his royal family. Oedipus, seeing his responsibility, demands anyone who knows about the murder to come forth. The City of Thebes is weak and powerless after the death of the king Laius. Oedipus says, "My spirit grieves for the city, for myself and all of you." If Oedipus had not proceeded with the investigation no one would know anything about him. Not one moment does he begin to think about the real situation he faces with the death of Laius. Promising the people of Thebes that the murderer will be found through his investigation. Oedipus awaits Creon to return with the oracle from Apollo to help further his investigation. Oedipus is ready to hear the report for the gods. Creon says, "Apollo commands us to drive the corruption from the land, and don't harbor the murderer any longer." After hearing the report he begins to

...