Oedipus And Creon Character Analysis

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In plays there are many different characters that serve various purposes; such as, the minor ones. A minor characters purpose is to help accompany the main character and to progress the movement of the play (learn.lexiconic.net). For example, in the play Oedipus Tyrannus, Creon helps with the movement by giving the audience background information about Oedipus becoming king, “My Lord before you came to rule our city, we had a king. His name was Laius… (Oedipus Tyrannus 5)”. Many times when the protagonist has a decision to make, it is because of the minor character (Gregory). Creon is then the one who relays the information about the oracle, which sets Oedipus’s journey for truth in motion, “A hidden sore is festering in our land. We are …show more content…
Creon mentions to Oedipus to discuss the prophecy with the town’s prophet Teiresias and once Oedipus does this he soon regrets it. He lets his temper flare because he does not agree with the response and accuses Creon and Teiresias of being in cahoots for his throne, “And Creon, my friend, my trusted friend, would plot to overthrow me-with this charlatan, this impostor, who auctions of his magic wares (Oedipus Tyrannus 11)”. Many critics, like S.M Adams and A.J.A Waldock, believe Oedipus had many characteristics, but they all agree that impetuous is one important one that led to his fall. Waldock feels that Oedipus is brave, confident and impetuous. Adams says that the play should be Oedipus Tyrannous because it is derived from the word tyrannos which means abundant wealth with the possibility of hubris and to have a suspicion that those closest to him will try and take his position. Which is why he is so quick to turn on Creon and Teiresias. Waldock also feels that if Oedipus would have searched for the truth with a more laid back attitude he would not have been as hurt and shamed as he was when he found out he was wrong for doubting the gods. Creon feels offended by Oedipus for even accusing him and ruining his name. Creon’s anger only infuriates Oedipus more and has him doubt the gods which, especially in Greek culture, is something you do not do. This can be …show more content…
Creon is the one who starts Oedipus’s determined truth seeking nature. He also allows Oedipus to be seen as a more than honorable king multiple times throughout the play. Then, it is Creon who brings out his flaws; by first introducing him to Teiresias, and then arguing with him which only increases his hubris and impetuousness. Then, finally, Creon is the one who has to make the decision of following Oedipus’s degree and making Oedipus a man to his word that even if it is found to be him that he would still punish himself, “I shall not exempt myself from the curse that I have called upon them (Oedipus Tyrannus 8)”. Even though ultimately Oedipus is a true Sophoclean tragic hero, he would have not been able to display these such qualities and characteristics if it was not for Creon, a minor character with a big

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