2024 update - Because we like you, here are some more free general knowledge trivia and quiz questions.
In Greek mythology, the one who solved the riddle of the sphinx was Oedipus. The sphinx was a mythical creature with the body of a lion, the wings of a bird, and the head of a woman. She terrorized the city of Thebes by asking a riddle to anyone who passed by. The riddle was, "What walks on four legs in the morning, two legs in the afternoon, and three legs in the evening?" Those who could not answer the riddle were devoured by the sphinx.
Oedipus, a prince of Thebes, was determined to put an end to the sphinx's reign of terror. When he encountered the sphinx and heard her riddle, he correctly answered, "Man, who crawls on all fours as a baby, walks on two legs as an adult, and uses a cane in old age." The sphinx was so shocked by Oedipus's intelligence that she threw herself off a cliff and perished.
Oedipus's victory over the sphinx made him a hero in Thebes. He was rewarded by the city's citizens and eventually became its king. However, Oedipus's triumph over the sphinx was only the beginning of his tragic story, as he would go on to fulfill a prophecy that foretold he would kill his father and marry his mother.
The tale of Oedipus and the sphinx has been retold countless times throughout history and continues to captivate audiences with its themes of fate, intelligence, and the consequences of one's actions. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of hubris and the unpredictable nature of destiny.
In conclusion, Oedipus is the legendary figure who solved the riddle of the sphinx in Greek mythology. His triumph over the mythical creature is a testament to his wit and courage, but it also serves as a reminder of the tragic consequences that can result from one's actions. The story of Oedipus and the sphinx continues to be a popular and enduring myth that resonates with audiences to this day.