When Iokaste elaborates upon the idea that Kreon and Oidipous are causing pain by asking why they pursue a disagreement over problems (κακthe horror is that d and rulerausing painn bringing pain as much as suffering it. ither of these facts touches Kreon. consultatiά) that she deems “personal,” this distinction does not seem altogether apt, as both are defending themselves against the imposition of criminal penalties for murder and sedition. Iokaste’s characterization of the issues thus seems entirely to miss the point. The dispute between them revolves around their views of the seer—his integrity, his authenticity, and the accuracy of his prophetic word. Her error suggests that matters of religious faith and skepticism are not simply private personal decisions: they have civic implications.