He was a man like any other man, in the sense that he was bound by his own strengths and weaknesses. However, he demonstrated the importance of his humanity and the impact of his character by not relying on the mistakes and failures of others to justify his actions. Oedipus did not passively submit to the anguish and pain normally expected from such circumstances, but rather chose to display an uncommon depth of brilliance and fortitude. Oedipus the King dealt with predetermined situations, but he chose to portray exceptional human characteristics found only in those who are willing to take risks in the face of overwhelming odds. Oedipus took this opportunity and found himself thrown into dire situations that would have forced any lesser man to accuse and condemn others. He acted to defend himself when he fought with King Laius and his men, not knowing King Laius' true identity as his father. Although these circumstances make ignorance of his birth an alibi for this murder, he was not truly guilty of murder when King Laius was killed. However, his integrity in voluntarily pursuing the truth, regardless of personal cost, and his acceptance to bear responsibility for all his actions made Oedipus an innocent man of great worth..