Egoism In Oedipus The King

Though Oedipus' decisions are often driven by self-interest, he ultimately is devoted to the people of Thebes and values their well being more than his own. His commitment to his citizens can be seen in various instances. The first is during a series of unfortunate events that torments the city, the root of it being a plague. Seeking help from their king, the Thebans turn to Oedipus for help. In hopes of eliminating the plague, he attempts to fulfill Apollo’s commands for the murderer of Laios to be expelled from the city. However, when Creon, the seer, identifies Oedipus as the murder, his egoism is revealed in the form of denial and determination to retain his reputation. Oedipus refuses to believe that he killed the previous king. He, who