Journal # 2 - Oedipus Rex

Oedipus shows some qualities of a good leader. He is protective of his people and a strong willed leader. He also donates all of his time to helping his people. However, he is also very quick to anger, his words against Tiresias are very derogatory when the blind prophet makes his accusations. This is a quality the could be his downfall. His anger at his accuser shows us that he is self-righteous and unable to take criticism. This hubris could be his downfall. He is also quick to make assumptions about others. He quickly accuses Creon of being a conspirator against him. This is another character of a bad leader. In the words of the Leader of the Chorus "Those who jump to conclusions may go wrong" (Sophocles, page 194, line 693). His attitude becomes more and more aggressive. He seems more on edge as I continue to read. Tiresias seems ominous, all-knowing, but sad about it. He would rather not know the things he does. Creon is a powerful man as well, the equal of Oedipus in many ways.