He tries to succeed at everything, and although this can incur a great cost, it is precisely that attitude that makes him so successful. But no success in life puts an end to the difficulties that one might face, and so Theseus must always figure out solutions to new problems. Theseus represents in some ways the ideal of mind over matter. He finds ways to make do with what he has, using his mind together with his body to do things that the body alone cannot do. His tremendous will to succeed and his quick mind allow him to succeed at doing things that others would not be able to do.
When he was not yet eighteen years old, Theseus demonstrates great skill in politics. He uses the hunting of the boar as an excuse to befriend Pylas, heir to the neighboring throne. Theseus not only gains friendship, but also manages to convince Pylas that together their kingdoms could clean up the Isthmus Road. Theseus knows that Pylas likes his idea and will suggest it to his father, but he himself says nothing of it. He waits until the Megarian heralds come to propose the terms to Eleusis. Theseus is aware of the King's traditionally limited role, and he is willing to gain power through subtle means. Theseus manipulates situations to suit his purposes, and is able to achieve the ends he desires without revealing his intentions. He believes that strength and bravery are not sufficient qualifications for a king; a king must also have cunning and foresight. In fact, Theseus' ability to think quickly and utilize his surroundings as best as possible allowed him to kill Phaia. Had he not braced his spear against the rock, he surely would have been killed.
Theseus's character shows how small actions often have large implications. If Theseus had not been insulted by the Cretans behavior towards a woman of his homeland, he would not have gone to Athens by the Isthmus Road, and Dexios would still be alive.
