Personal Response to Oedipus Rex Group Discussion

Oedipus is an "everyman" primarily because of his selflessness. At the end of the play, he volunteers to leave because of his uncovered murder of Laios, and because he had originally proposed to exile Laio's killer. At the beginning of the play, he solemnly promises to discover the truth about the murderer of Iokaste's (his wife) ex-husband. It is apparent that he will not be easily deterred in this quest. He is selfless to the point of gouging his eyes out as a method of atoning for his regrettable deeds. In addition, he could have easily abused his power as king but instead chooses not to, remaining loyal to his people.