Epeisodion 2
Creon
Fellow citizens, having learned that Oedipus the king lays dire charges against me, I have come in indignation.
If he thinks that in the present troubles he has suffered from me, by word or by deed, anything harmful, truly I do not desire my full term of years, when I must bear such blame as this. The wrong of this rumor
515
touches me not in one point alone, but has the largest scope, if I am to be called a traitor in the city, a traitor by you and by my friends.
520
Chorus
But perhaps this taunt came under the stress of anger, rather than from the purpose of his heart.
Creon
Was the opinion given that my counsels had brought the seer to utter his falsehoods?
525
Chorus
Such things were said—I do not know with what meaning.
Creon
And was this charge laid against me with steady eyes and steady mind?
Chorus
I do not know. I see not what my masters do. But here comes our lord from the house.
530
Oedipus
You, how did you get here? Are you so boldfaced that you have come to my house, you who are manifestly the murderer of its master,
the palpable thief of its crown? Come, tell me, in the name of the gods, was it cowardice or folly which you saw in me and which led you to plot this thing? Did you think that I would not notice this deed of yours creeping upon me by stealth, or that if I became aware of it I would not ward it off?
535
Is your attempt not foolish, to seek the throne without followers or friends—a prize which followers and wealth must win?
540
Creon
Mark me now: hear a fair reply in answer to your words, and then judge for yourself on the basis of knowledge.
Oedipus
You are apt in speech, but I have a poor wit for lessons, since I have found you a malignant foe.
545
Creon
Now hear first how I will explain this very thing.
Oedipus
One thing—that you are not false—do not bother to explain to me.
Creon
If you think that stubbornness
without sense is a virtue, you are not wise.
550
Oedipus
If you think you can wrong a kinsman and escape the penalty, you are not sane.
Creon
Justly said, I grant you: but tell me what the wrong is that you say you are suffering at my hands.
Oedipus
Did you, or did you not, advise me to send for that reverend seer?
555
Creon
Even now I am of the same mind.
Oedipus
How long is it, then, since Laius . . .
Creon
Did what? I do not understand.
Oedipus
was swept out of sight by deadly violence?
560
Creon
The count of years would run far into the past.
Oedipus
Did this seer possess this skill in those days?
Creon
He was wise as now, and held in equal honor.
Oedipus
Did he make mention of me at that time?
Creon
Never, certainly, when I was within hearing.
565
Oedipus
Did you never investigate the murder?
