To what extent is this true in Oedipus the King?
"To be wise is to suffer." Throughout this play we see that after Oedipus suffers and loses his eyesight it is only then he is able to seek the truth.
When we are first introduced to Oedipus, he is a strong leader who is thoroughly respected by the people of Thebes. "O greatest of men." Oedipus was the saviour of Thebes 15 years before he solved the riddle of the Sphinx which freed the city from the plague and death. Because of this act, he inherited the throne although when a new disaster threatened the prosperity of the city, the people of Thebes turned to Oedipus. "I grieve for you my children. Believe me; I know all that you desire