Oedipus the King

Oedipus vs. Creon In Sophocles’ epic tragedy, Oedipus the King, the protagonist, Oedipus brings about his own downfall. His relationship with his friend, uncle, and brother-in-law, Creon, reflects his emotions that led to his ruin. They go through three main stages in their relationship - trust, hate, and pity. As they progress from one stage to the next, the play evolves into a well-known epic tragedy. In the opening, the audience learns the city of …

…I. First Stage: Trust A. Audience learns situation in Thebes. B. Oedipus trusts Creon with the fate of the city. II. Second Stage: Hate A. Audience learns of Oedipus’ fate from Tiresias. B. Oedipus assumes Creon is plotting against him. C. Creon reacts with utter astonishment and resentment. III. Third Stage: Pity A. Oedipus’ fate is lived. B. Oedipus realizes he is wrong about Creon and is regretful. C. Creon is gracious and pities Oedipus.