How does Oedipus react to the old servant's mood and behavior?

Oedipus's reaction to the old servant’s mood and behavior reflects his volatile character and intense emotional state. In the context of the play, as the tension escalates around the truth of his identity and the disastrous prophecy, Oedipus becomes increasingly agitated. When confronting the old servant, instead of maintaining calm or seeking understanding, he resorts to frustration and aggression, which culminates in binding the servant's arms. This action signifies Oedipus's desperation to uncover the truth and his inability to control the unfolding chaos in his life.

The choice illustrates Oedipus's tragic flaw—his hubris and inability to accept the reality of his circumstances. His aggressive response to the servant is a critical moment that underscores his mounting peril and foreshadows the eventual unraveling of his fate. This interaction exemplifies the theme of blindness, both literal and metaphorical, as Oedipus is unable to see the truth about himself and his past, leading to further tragic consequences.