How we cite our quotes: (Line)
Quote #1
OEDIPUS. For my sufferings and the long time that has
Accompanied me and, thirdly, nobility, teach me to acquiesce. (7-8)
For Oedipus, suffering is educational. His long years of suffering, combined with his noble birth, teach him out to just go with the flow. His life sucks, but since he’s used to it, he can deal. It’s not exactly the healthiest way to handle things, but probably better than fighting the gods.
Quote #2
ANTIGONE. Father, suffering Oedipus, the towers that
Protect the city are, to my eyes, far off. (14-15)
So it’s pretty common for ancient Greek dramatists to use epithets in their plays. These are sort of like nicknames, adjectives that go with names to characterize the person. So if Oedipus’ daughter calls him “suffering Oedipus” all the time, you know that he is not a happy man.
Quote #3
CHORUS. Zeus, Protector, who in the world is the elder?
OEDIPUS. Surely not one to be judged very happy,
And of the best fate, guardians of this land!
I make that clear! For otherwise I would not shuffle along
Aided by the eyes of others [. . .]. (143-48)
The Chorus doesn’t know whom Oedipus is when he shows up, wandering around all blind and poor. He confirms that he is, indeed, an unhappy sufferer; the suffering Oedipus. We detect a slight bit of sarcasm here when he insists on his unhappy state. If ancient Greek had had a word for “duh” this is where it would have gone handily.