Who was the king of Thebes before Oedipus?

Laius was the king of Thebes before Oedipus. He is a significant character in the myth of Oedipus, as his actions and fate set the stage for the tragic events that follow. Laius had received a prophecy that his son would kill him, which led him to abandon his newborn son, Oedipus, on a mountainside. This attempt to thwart the prophecy ultimately contributes to its fulfillment, as Oedipus unknowingly kills Laius later in life.

Choosing Laius highlights the themes of fate and free will in the play, illustrating how attempts to escape destiny can lead directly to its realization. The presence of Laius looms over Oedipus throughout the narrative, shaping Oedipus's identity, motivations, and the tragic trajectory of the story. This historical context deepens our understanding of Oedipus's character and the tragic irony that permeates the play.