Minor+Characters+in+'Oedipus+Rex'

//__**The Priest**__// The priest is introduced at the beginning of the play, when Oedipus enters, surrounded by followers; all making offerings to the Gods in the hope that they will lift the plague that has struck the city. His main purpose in the play is to introduce the problems that are going on in the city, as he speaks on behalf of all the inhabitants of Thebes. His first speech serves as an exposition, as it gives background information on the situation in Thebes and Oedipus’ history. He also introduces the character of Oedipus as a fairly great and honourable person, as he addresses him as “great Oedipus”. He is also representative of the people’s reliance and belief in the Gods.