Oedipus: The Plague in Thebes

Oedipus must save the city from a plague that has struck it. His responsibility as a leader compels him to act decisively to solve this crisis.

Oedipus is deeply distressed and burdened by the plight of his people. He expresses his sorrow and his deep sense of responsibility for the city's well-being.

Creon has been sent to consult the Oracle at Delphi to seek divine guidance on how to save the city from the plague. This consultation is crucial for Oedipus to potentially find a solution.

<p>This phrase symbolizes the vulnerability of a city and its people to destruction and the crucial importance of its citizens' well-being. A city without life is simply an empty shell, devoid of meaning.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Oedipus is a proactive and determined leader who takes decisive action to address a crisis. He seeks guidance and acts on the information he receives, demonstrating his commitment to the well-being of his people.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The people of Thebes seek Oedipus's help due to the devastating plague affecting their city, which has resulted in death and suffering.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Oedipus describes his relationship with the people of Thebes as one of responsibility and readiness to help in their time of crisis.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Imagery of a ship pitching wildly in stormy seas and the red waves of death is used to depict the suffering of Thebes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The priest acknowledges that Oedipus freed Thebes from the Sphinx and liberated them from a brutal tribute.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The priest implies that while Oedipus cannot equal the gods, he is regarded as the first among men in facing crises.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The people of Thebes are depicted as huddling at Oedipus's altar, kneeling and clinging to it, indicating their desperation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The people are shown with their branches wound in wool, which signifies mourning and reverence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Oedipus's initial response shows his empathy and willingness to act for his people, revealing his noble character.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The citizens are suffering from a plague and need Oedipus to help them find a solution.

Oedipus is the king and leader of Thebes, and they are relying on him to solve their problems.

Creon is Oedipus' brother-in-law and is sent to the Oracle at Delphi to find out how to save the city.

The Oracle is a sacred place where Apollo's priests can reveal the will of the gods through prophecies.

Oedipus emphasizes that he shares the city’s suffering and will do everything to save it.

Oedipus, the main character, is introduced. He is presented as a powerful king, known for his bravery and wisdom, who is ready to help his people.

The citizens of Thebes are suffering from a terrible plague that is killing livestock, crops, and people. They are desperate for a solution.

The people of Thebes believe that Oedipus has a special connection to the gods and can help them overcome this crisis.

The citizens of Thebes believe that Oedipus is a god-like figure and that he has special powers because he was able to solve the riddle of the Sphinx.

Oedipus is described as a king who leads by example and who feels a strong responsibility for the welfare of his people.

The play begins with a depiction of the suffering and desperation of the Theban people, highlighting the importance of their plea to Oedipus.

The play suggests that the people of Thebes have a deep respect for Oedipus as a leader and a sense of hope that he will find a solution to their problems.

This section introduces the key characters and the central conflict of the play. It sets the stage for the unfolding drama and the quest to find a solution to the plague.