What is polybus?

Polybus was a mythical king of Corinth in Greek mythology. He was the husband of Merope and the adoptive father of Oedipus. Polybus raised Oedipus as his own son, unaware of Oedipus's true parentage. When Oedipus learned of his fate, he left Corinth, believing that Polybus and Merope were his biological parents.

Polybus is often portrayed as a kind and benevolent king who genuinely cared for Oedipus, despite the tragic events that unfolded later in Oedipus's life. In some versions of the myth, Polybus and Merope are devastated by Oedipus's departure and his eventual downfall.

Overall, Polybus is typically depicted as a figure of stability and compassion in Oedipus's story, providing a contrast to the tragic events that surround his adoptive son's life.