Oedipus Ethical Dilemmas

In The Oedipus Cycle, all the characters are constantly faced with situations that challenge their judgement and morality. While they all encounter similar ethical questions, the characters in The Oedipus Cycle all resolve their dilemmas in different ways. From the logic-minded nature of Antigoné to the overconfident nature of Oedipus, the way each and every character of The Oedipus Cycle deals with major moral dilemmas is an insight into not only their unique personalities, but also their status in society. The Oedipus Cycle, in short, is a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between power and morality. In the first book of the trilogy, Oedipus Rex, Oedipus faces a major moral dilemma, and the way he deals with it not only suggests an overconfident character but also one in a position of high power. In the first book, Oedipus is in a lofty position of power as the King of Thebes, and while he treats his subjects kindly, it is made clear that he feels that
Antigoné is Oedipus's guide as he is blind and destitute. Antigoné has a much lower social status than that of Oedipus in the first book. Despite that, Antigoné seems to be more wise and all seeing than the much more powerful Oedipus was. Antigoné tries her best to not only keep Oedipus safe at Colonus but also tries her best to convince one of her brothers, Polynieces, to avert a war between him and his sibling. The full extent of Antigone's loyalty to the morals of the gods is shown when she risks her life in Antigone by burying her brother, against the wishes of Creon. Creon is just like Oedipus in the first story as he is disillusioned by his power and thus goes against the morals of the gods by applying his own opinions and beliefs. In short, Antigoné upholds the "correct" values as set forth by the gods before those who are mere