but rule a land of the living, not a wasteland" (66-67).
Analysis: This quote is from a Theban man speaking to Oedipus on behalf of the people of Thebes. They are all unwell and coming to speak to Oedipus in hopes that he can turn everything around for the better, as their king. They have a lot of faith in him as a king as they say "you know you have the power"because they know what he is capable of. They know he is capable of ruling Thebes and stopping the plague and they know that he knows it as well. Everyone knows that Oedipus will be the king no matter what, but better to have him be a king of a strong and powerful kingdom than a Thebes in it's current state; a city that is slowly crumbling to the ground. The word "wasteland" implies that Thebes is in a very neglected and unattractive state because it isn't receiving the attention from it's king; a king that has the the trust from his people and the potential to turn everything around.
Readers Response:
Dear Oedipus,
I have been following your story for quite a while now and paying close attention to your actions. It seems to me that you have really been letting down your kingdom recently; the city in which everyone depends on you. Thebes has been hit by a horrible plague and as king I believe you should do everything in your power to ensure good health and safety for your people. It seems to me that there is a strong trust between the Theban people and yourself which I admire you for as a king. They believe in you and know you have the power and I know you believe that too, I just think you need to realize that and help your city to reassure them that you care.
Sincerely, Claudia
Sophocles. Oedipus the King. The Three Theban Plays. Trans. Robert Fagles. New York: Penguin Classics, 1984. Print.
I really enjoyed your reader's response, Claudia. I thought that it was interesting that we both wrote Oedipus letters, but at different points in the play, but we both saw his potential to help others and felt pity for him, although we can also be angry at him for being selfish. I really saw how you felt towards Oedipus, and how you feel for Thebes as a city. Great job ziz ily
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