Oedipus the King

Values and Ideas
One of the values seen within Oedipus the King, written by Sophocles, is the value of origin. Within this story, Oedipus was in search of his parents. Found on page 640, lines 1183 is proof of this importance. "Let it burst! Whatever will, whatever must! I must know my birth, no matter how common it may be-- I must see my origings face-to-face." Something else that is proven regarding the gods is that they require a "price." "I cry your wild cries, Apollo, Healer of Delos I worship you in dread... what now, what is your price? some new sacrifice?" What is valued is the favor of the gods. Obviously, being that this people group believes all things come from these gods, it is all in the gods control. Having good happen would corralate to having good favor with them, the gods control their fate.

Hero?
I do not believe that the Greek standard would place Oedipus at the level of a hero. While searching for lines within this piece that would prove this statement, I went to the last words of Oedipus. The last thing we see this King do is plead with his guards. "No- don't take them (daughters) away from me, not now! No no no!" Although in the beginning Sophocles portrayed Oedipus as a hero, someone who had in the past saved the city. On page 613, lines 57-60, the priest attempts to rebuild the Kings stamina by reminded him of the past. "Act, defend yourself, your former glory! Your country calls you savior now for your zeal, your action years ago." Each of the hero's that we have discussed in class have ended with courage and integrity. Yes, Oedipus began his Kingship with heroism, but he was last depicted as a weak, troubled King. Therefore, I dont think that neither Sophocles or his fellow Greeks would title Oedipus as a Hero.