fate vs. free will in Oedipus Rex

In Oedipus Rex, the main argument is whether Oedipus was in charge of his own life. This argument could go either way. Fate exists, but ultimately man makes his own decisions. That is, Oedipus’ final destination was set for him, but he mapped the way out himself.
Oedipus was cursed at birth. King Laius and Queen Iokaste received a prophecy that their son would kill the King. In knowing this, they gave orders to a shepherd to leave the baby in a field to die. The shepherd though took pity on the baby and gave him to another thinking that the baby would be raised and live a happy life far from the city of Thebes. The King and Queen of Corinth ended up adopting the child and named him Oedipus. This is a perfect example of fate and free will. It was the shepherd’s own free will to give the baby to smother shepherd instead of leaving him for dead. However, leaving him alive was only playing into the role of the prophecy or Oedipus’ true fate.
Oedipus received...