In his respect for Oedipus and his acknowledgment of the old man’s sufferings, Theseus reinforces the sympathetic view of the exiled former king that Oedipus’ speeches created in the previous dialogue with the elders. This respectful approach toward Oedipus, in turn, establishes Theseus as a character commanding respect and sympathy. In fact, Oedipus himself praises Theseus, calling the king “so magnanimous, so noble!” (641–642).
This episode includes one of the most famous speeches written by Sophocles (685–712). To Theseus’ question about why Thebes and Athens should ever come to war, Oedipus answers with all the authority of his own horrendous experience, describing the instability of life and earthly circumstances.
