Does it seem fair for Oedipus to call himself worst man?

Answer 1

Oedipus's self-identification as the "worst man" reflects his profound sense of guilt and responsibility for the tragic events that have unfolded in his life, particularly the fulfillment of the prophecy that leads him to unwittingly kill his father and marry his mother. His tragic flaws—hubris and a relentless pursuit of truth—contribute to his downfall, making him feel unworthy of his former status. While his self-condemnation may stem from a deep sense of remorse, it also highlights the complexities of fate, free will, and human error in Greek tragedy. Ultimately, his tragic realization evokes both pity and empathy rather than a straightforward judgment of fairness.