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?
Creon
Due search we made, of course, though we learned nothing.
Oedipus
And how was it that this sage did not tell this story then.
Creon
I do not know: where I lack insight it is my custom to be silent.
Oedipus
This much, at least, you know, and could declare with insight enough.
570
Creon
What is that? If I know it, I will not deny it.
Oedipus
That, if he had not conferred with you, he would not have named me as Laius’ slayer.
Creon
If he says this, you know best: but I deem it just
to learn from you as much as you have from me now.
575
Oedipus
Learn your fill. I will never be found guilty of the bloodshed.
Creon
Say, then—have you married my sister?
Oedipus
The question allows no denial.
Creon
And you rule the land as she does, with equal sway.
Oedipus
She obtains from me all that she wishes.
580
Creon
And do I not rank as a third peer of you two?
Oedipus
It is just in this that you are seen to be a false friend.
Oedipus Tyrannus. Sophocles. Richard Jebb (Translator). Cambridge. 1887.
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