How does the interaction between Oedipus and Creon develop a key character trait of Oedipus? Give a specific example to support your answer.

OEDIPUS

How dare you come here? How dare you show your face here at my house, you who would be my murderer, and steal my throne? Tell me, by the gods, did you think me a coward and an idiot? Was that why you conceived this plan? Did you think I wouldn’t find out or defend myself? You fool! You need money and friends to steal a throne: wealth and supporters give power.

CREON

Listen to what I have to say, and then judge me.

OEDIPUS

You are skilled in speech. But I’m not going to be a good listener to my enemy.

CREON

Please listen.

OEDIPUS

Just tell me you’re not a traitor.

CREON

No, I’m not. Don’t be stubborn, but be wise, and have an open mind. It’s not wise to think you can harm someone close to you and not be punished for it.

CREON

I agree. Tell me what did I do to harm you?

OEDIPUS

Didn’t you tell me to send for your prophet? Do you deny it?

CREON

No, and I still believe it was good advice.

OEDIPUS

How long has it been since Laius disappeared… was murdered.

CREON

It was a long time ago, and the years add up.

OEDIPUS

Was Tiresias a skilled prophet then?

CREON

Yes. He was wise and honored then as now.

OEDIPUS

Did he mention me then?

CREON

Not that I heard personally. Didn’t you try to find the killer?

CREON

Of course, but we could find nothing.

OEDIPUS

Why didn’t the wise seer help you?

CREON

I don’t know. If you know nothing, say nothing.

OEDIPUS

You do know something, and if you know what’s good for you, you’ll tell me.

CREON

What? I won’t hold anything back.

OEDIPUS

If he wasn’t plotting with you, he would never have called me the murderer of Laius.

CREON

If that is what he said. Now you must tell me as much as I’ve told you.