Quote #2

"Well I know
you are sick to death, all of you,
but sick as you are, not one is sick as I... But my spirit
grieves for the city, for myself and all of you" (71-76).

Analysis: This quote brings forth the honest side of Oedipus. As king, he admits that he is aware of his lack of effort to help the city of Thebes get through this plague. He knows that everyone is suck, but he himself is mentally sick because the city has not received the proper care from him. For Oedipus to grieve for not only the city and his people, but also for himself, shows that although he isn't sure what to do, his greatest desire is to find a way to help. He knows he needs to find a way to stop the plague to the point where it's affecting him as much as the plague is affecting the Theban people. 

Readers Response:
Our dear king;
help us now, we need it more than ever
we come to you, in our darkest hour,
seeking help from our king, beloved Oedipus
what holds you back but yourself?
don't show weakness now,
we know your strength,
we admire your strength,
let it shine through,
you have the answers.

Sophocles. Oedipus the King. The Three Theban Plays. Trans. Robert Fagles. New York: Penguin Classics, 1984. Print.