Answer: Oedipus.
Some extra relevant information:
In Greek legend, the Sphinx was ultimately defeated by Oedipus. The Sphinx was a mythical creature that had the head of a human and the body of a lion. It posed a riddle to all who came across its path and would devour those who failed to answer correctly.
According to the myth, the Sphinx took residence outside the city of Thebes and plagued its inhabitants with her riddles. The riddle that she posed was: “What walks on four legs in the morning, two legs at noon, and three legs in the evening?” Many had attempted to answer the riddle, but all failed, leading to their demise.
Upon hearing about the Sphinx and her deadly riddle, Oedipus, who was destined to solve the riddle and become the king of Thebes, approached the creature. The Sphinx asked him the famous riddle, and Oedipus confidently declared, “Man, who crawls on all fours as a baby, walks on two legs as an adult, and uses a cane in old age.” With this answer, Oedipus had solved the riddle and defeated the Sphinx.
As a result of his victory, Oedipus became the hero of Thebes and was granted the throne. This success also played a significant role in fulfilling a prophecy that had been foretold about Oedipus, which had tragic consequences for both him and his family.
The legend of Oedipus defeating the Sphinx has been passed down through generations and remains an integral part of Greek mythology. It highlights the importance of intelligence, wit, and determination in overcoming challenges, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds.