According to the classical definition of tragedy, "The tragic hero should be a ruler or leader whose character is good and whose misfortune is caused by some mistake or frailty" (Butcher) . Oedipus fits this role perfectly. He is the king of Thebes who saved the city from the enigma of the Sphinx. This confirms that Oedipus' character is good. As for the tragic flaw of Oedipus; he is proud and does not give in to an argument even when he has no facts to back himself up on. Creon knows this and in a discussion with Oedipus states: "You are dark in your yielding mood / As in your anger you were wild. / Your anger justly torments you more" (Sophocles). Creon describes Oedipus here perfectly. When Oedipus refuses to give in, further tragedy often strikes him. This a perfect example of this occurs when Oedipus refuses to listen to Jocasta's advice and pursues the shepherd who witnessed Laius' murder. This shepherd brings the terrible news of Oedipus' true identity, a tragedy that is the direct result of Oedipus' tragic story.