Oedipus the King Character Map
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Sopocles
The writer of "Oedipus the King".
Thebes
The kingdom of which Oedipus rules. Most of the story takes place here.
Oedipus (and Antigone)
Oedipus is the true son of Laius and Jocasta. He was abandoned on the side of the mountain after a prophecy was given that he'd kill Laius, but the prophecy was changed as punishment so that he would also marry his mother.
Creon
Creon is Oedipus's brother in law. There was always some sort of rivalry between the two, causing Creon to be accused of the murder Oedipus committed.
Laius
Laius was the father of Oedipus and former king of Thebes. He was the one foretold to be killed by his son in the prophecy, but defied the gods by trying to change his fate.
Jocasta
The former life of Laius and Oedipus's mother. Oedipus ends up marrying her as part of his prophecy.
Polybus and Merope
Oedipus's adopted parents as well as the rulers of Corinth.
Ismene and Antigone
The two daughters of Jocasta and Oedipus.
Eteocles and Polynices
The two sons of Jocasta and Oedipus.
Cadamus
Cadamus was the founder of Thebes who slayed a dragon and used its teeth to create the city. These teeth later spawned giants who became the fathers of the city.
Sphinx
The winged creature with the head of a woman and the body of a lion. This being terrorized Thebes many years ago, killing all who couldn't solve her riddle. The only person who could successfully do so was Oedipus. After her riddle was solved, she killed herself.
Corinth
The land of King Polybus and Queen Merope.
Oracle of Apollo
The dwelling of Tiresias, the great prophet of Apollo. This was where the first prophecy about Oedipus was given.