Note that Sophocles shapes this scene with an emphasis on hurried exchanges and outbursts, expressing the confusion and then the anxiety of the elders of Colonus.
The chorus begins their chant with the energy of pursuit—“Look for the man! Who is he? Where’s he hiding?” (142). Later, their exchanges with Oedipus tend to be short and directed, as they shout instructions about where he may sit.
The chorus even peppers Oedipus’ retelling of his fate with sudden outbursts. The whole effect of the rapid exchanges quickens the scene, introducing necessary plot summary economically, while also emphasizing that the panicked elders are rushing to judgment of Oedipus out of fear of the gods’ fury.
Their final order for Oedipus to leave Colonus, therefore, constitutes a snap decision—one they will think through more carefully over the course of the play.
