A messenger arrives, announcing to the elders that Oedipus is dead. After describing the rituals that Oedipus, his daughter, and Theseus performed in preparation, the messenger explains that only Theseus can witness the passing of the tragic hero.
After her father's death, Antigone begs Theseus to take her to the grave. Theseus refuses, explaining that Oedipus wished its location to remain a mystery. Antigone says that she and her sister will return to Thebes, and Theseus promises his protection.
The chorus ends the play with the admonition to stop weeping and trust in the gods.
