Oedipus The King The events in Oedipus the King, written by Sophocles, show an underlying relationship of man's free will existing within the cosmic order or fate. Greeks believed this fate guided the universe in a harmonious purpose. Man was free to choose and was ultimately held responsible for his own actions. Both the concept of fate and free will played an integral part in Oedipus' destruction. Although he was a victim of fate, he was not controlled by it. Oedipus was destined from birth to someday marry his mother and to murder his father. This prophecy, as warned by the oracle of Apollo at Delphi, was uncondi