Character guide

Oedipus

major

Also known as Theseus Oedipus, Oedipus Hath Phoebus

Blind former king of Thebes, guided by Antigone, seeking refuge at Colonus.

Antigone

major

Also known as Antigone Fathers, sweet Antigone

Devoted daughter of Oedipus, accompanying him in exile.

Theseus

supporting

Also known as Stranger Theseus, Stranger

King of Athens who offers Oedipus sanctuary and protection.

Creon

supporting

Also known as Creon Zeus, Creon Burghers

Ruler of Thebes who tries to force Oedipus to return.

Ismene

supporting

Also known as Exit Ismene

Younger daughter of Oedipus who brings news from Thebes.

Polyneices

supporting

Exiled son of Oedipus seeking his father's blessing for war.

Zeus

minor

Also known as almighty Zeus

Supreme god invoked by characters throughout the play.

Apollo

minor

Also known as Phoebus

God of prophecy whose oracle foretold Oedipus's fate.

Messenger

minor

Herald who reports Oedipus's mysterious death.

Stranger

minor

Also known as Enter Stranger, Stranger The Gracious Ones

Colonus resident who first encounters Oedipus and Antigone.

Aegeus

minor

Legendary king of Athens, father of Theseus, mentioned in context.

Poseidon

minor

God of the sea, patron deity of Athens invoked by Theseus.