Oedipus Journal 2

Journal 2: 

Oedipus demonstrates deficient qualities of a leader. Not only does he act irrationally, without thinking about his decisions or asking for help, but he also acts out of anger and the passions built up inside of him. "You - here? You have the gall to show your face before the palace gates?" (595). Oedipus does not even think about whom he is accusing or the consequences of his words. He acts in such an emotional manner that it is hard to really take him seriously and think of him as a calm and collected role model. In the beginning of the story, Oedipus seems to be a caring and thoughtful man who thought things through to such an extent that one might think of him as an excellent king who is taking care of his people. As the story continued and Oedipus began to reveal his emotional and irrational way of dealing with problems, as seen through his interactions with Teiresias and Creon, which causes one to think that he is not so worthy a leader as previously implied. Creon and Teiresias both seem very calm and wise, thinking things through and using their judgment for the benefit of the people and not themselves. They both speak about things that need to be addressed but also leave things do not need to be revealed under the shadows. They use discernment.