Oedipus Study Questions
arrogance demonstrated by a character as result of pride or passion
hubris
Oedipus almost becomes violent with Tiresias: (quote)
if you didn't look so senile the lash would teach you what your scheming means
Zeus
leader of the gods
Oedpius learns his identity after
threatening to kill the herdsmen
fate 2
tiresias unwillingly reveals oedipus' fate
Violence action
took place offstage
What does Oedipus ask Creon to do for Jocasta, his daughters and sons?
He asks Creon to bury Jocasta, watch after his sons, although they will need nothing, and to love and pity his daughters
How does Oedipus respond when Teiresias charges him with killing Laius?
He calls Teiresias a blind fool He accuses Creon of killing Laius He accuses Teiresias of conspiring with Creon
To heighten the suspense and create a distraction before the final climax, the Greek playwrights often included brief songs. What false hope is the Chorus creating?
He could have been a son of the gods.
What are the reasons Oedipus gives for tearing out his eyes?
He does not deserve to see, as nothing would delight them anyway
What is the climax of this play?
He is indeed the son of Laius and Jocasta.
What is your first impression of Oedipus?
He seems to be a very proud and arrogant king.
Why does the Priest suspect Creon brings good news?
He sees that Creon is wearing a crown made from a laurel, the tree of Apollo, and believes he would not do so if he had brought bad news.
What does the servant report is Oedipus' explanation for his self-mutilation?
He shouts that his eyes should not see anymore of the evil that he had created.
Why do you suppose Creon wants to talk to Oedipus in private first?
He wants to protect the privacy of his family.
Oedipus shows remorse for his behaviour toward Creonv
I wronged him... in every way... I was so wrong, so wrong
What behaviors has Sophocles presented as evil and dreadful?
Incest, murder of parent, lack of divine will.
Of what symbolic significance are the olive boughs strewn at the alter steps as the Thebans address oedipus? why does he tell the suppliants to lift up their olive boughs as they depart?
It symbolises peace. Peace is now over.
Why is it significant that it was Creon whom Oedipus sent to the Oracle and now it is Creon whom Oedipus has sent to get Tiresias?
Oedipus is just using Creon as a tool.
Creon tries to prove his innocence to Oedipus by arguing that
he has all the benefits of kingship without any of the responsibilities
Oedipus's affection for Jocasta clear through his repetition of
"dearest"
Oedipus blames Creon for a conspiracy...
...Tiresias is pushed to reveal the truth
The man who survived the attack of Laius most likely lied when he reported that a band of thieves killed the king because...
...he was ashamed that he couldn't defend the king against a single attacker
Creon is described as...
...loyal
The Unity of Time, The Unity of Place, and the Unity of Action
3 unities in Greek Drama
What evidence is there of the strong bond beyond Jocasta and Oedipus?
A bond is evident when Oedipus agrees to tell Jocasta of his sorrows, and says that no one would hear them before her
He was murdered by thieves (attacked him) because they were paid to do it
According to Creon, what happened to the former king, Laius?
According to Jocasta, who killed Laius? Where was Laius killed? When was Laius killed? What did Laius look like?
According to Jocasta, Laius was killed by robbers from another country in Phocis where the road splits to Delphi and Daulia. Laius was tall, hair beginning to turn white, and built like Oedipus.
What is Haimon's initial response when his father asks how he feels about the king's decision to execute Antigone?
Haimon says that he supports and obeys his father's decisions.
How does Jocasta die?
She hung herself after finding out she was married to the murderer of her husband, her son
What does Antigone plan to do?
She plans to bury her brother Polyneices according to the laws of their God. She believes that God's laws are more important than man's laws.
What does Antigone beg the people of Thebes to bear witness to?
She wants the town to bear witness to how she was denied pity and unjustly judged by Creon.
How do Oedipus and the chorus react to these revaltions about knowing he is the son of Lauis?
Shocked, Horrified and frightened
What superiority does Oedipus claim over Teiresais?
Since Oedipus is king and has power and sight over teiresais
What crime has Ployneices committed in the opinion of the king?
Since Polyneices broke his exile and attacked the city of Thebes, Creon considers Polyneices a traitor
How was it decided which of the sentries would bring the news about Polyneices to Creon?
Since this is terribly bad news, no one wants to tell the king. The sentries end up throwing dice to decide who will tell Creon.
Oedipus becomes extremely angry when the shepherd is resisting his questioning: (quote)
So you won't talk willingly- then you'll talk with pain....twist his arms back quickly
What news does the sentry bring to Creon?
Someone has secretly covered the body of Polyneices with just enough dirt to be considered as buried by the gods. His soul will now move to the Underworld.
Destroyed herself after Oedipus correctly answered her riddle
Sphnix
Creons final statement to Oedipus, rather cruel, emphasising his downfall: (quote)
Still the king, master of all thing? No more; here your power ends.
What does the Chorus compare Thebes to?
Thebes, in this case, is the personification of those who rise to defend the city. Collectively, Thebes is compared to a dragon.
After questioning Jocasta about the details of Laius' death, what does Oedipus
Up to this point he has denied killing Laius, now he begins to believe that he ma have.
Sophocles
Used three characters and created more realistic dramatic scenes
Describe Haimon's reaction when Creon entered Antigone's tomb.
Haimon spat in his father's face and then he drew his sword against Creon. When he missed in his attempt to kill the king, he turned the sword on himself. He died with Antigone in his arms.
What does Haimon tell King Creon about the people of Thebes' allegiance to him?
Haimon tells his father that the people only obey him out of fear and that they will say whatever he wants to hear.
Who else does Creon have arrested in connection with the crime of burying Polyneices?
He arrests Antigone's sister, Ismene in connection with the crime.
why did oedipus run away from his home in corinth?
He does not want to fulfill the prophecy of him killing his father and marrying his mother so, since he believes that King Polybus and Queen Merope (king and queen of Corinth) are his real father and mother, he runs away to Thebes, thinking that he is protecting his alleged parents.
Why does Teiresais refuse to help Oedipus?
He doesn't want either of them to get hurt because he knows that Oedipus is the killer but he also is the king and can kill Teiresais if he gets mad.
What does the prophet claim that he heard which frightened him?
He heard birds screaming and he knew that they were fighting and tearing at each other.
Who is the messenger, and what has he come to tell Oedipus?
He is a shepherd from Corin and says that Oedipus's father is dead and he may now reign.
What does the Choragos compare Polyneices to in the Parodos?
He is compared to a wild eagle swooping down on the city of Thebes
What might this suggest about his character?
He is quick to anger and to judge
What accusation does Tiresias make against Oedipus?
He is the murderer
What is ironic about the one survivors testimony?
He lied.
How does Oedipus compare his sorrow to that of his people?
He says he has more sorrow than the people of Thebes, for he worries for himself AND the whole city, therefore he has more sorrow than everyone else.
What does the Shepherd finally reveal? Why is he so reluctant to say it?
He says the baby was given from Lauis. he doesnt want Oedipus to kill him.
How does Oedipus respond to the horror of learning his true identity and seeing his dead wife and mother?
He takes the jewels from his mother/wife's necklace and stabs his eyes until he is blinded
the chorus represent the citizens of Thebes. They differ because they cannot interact with the other characters.
Who are the chorus? How do they differ from the other Characters?
Chorus - they can not talk to other characters
Who are the chorus? How do they differ from the other characters?
called on the gods, Zeus, Apollo, Athena, and Artemis to help
Who did the Chorus beg to help?
Oedipus
Who has to greive or feel for the whole city?
The queens brother and Oedipus's uncle and brother in law
Who is Creon?
A blind prophet of Apollo - has been cursed by gods because he is a citizen of Thebes. He can see the future
Who is Teiresias? Why does Oedipus send for him?
Robbers
Who is rumored to have killed Laius?
Choragos - interacts with other characters
Who is the chorus leader? What is his task?
choragus and his task is to speak for the citizens.
Who is the chorus leader? What is his task?
Jocasta
Who is the queen?
Oedipus solved it and the play transpired after the riddle was solved. The prize was Oedipus got to be king and marry the queen.
Who solved the riddle? What transpired after the riddle was solved? What prizes were awarded to the one who solved the riddle?
Oedipus solved the riddle. The plaque transpired afterward.
Who solved the riddle? what transpired after the riddle was solved? What prizes were awarded to the one who solved the riddle?
men played female roles, it amplified their voices, and it easily identified the character
Why did they wear mask during the plays?
he is afraid that he will kill the messenger
Why does Teiresias at first refuse to tell Oedipus the truth?
He is afraid to tell the truth
Why does Teriresias at first refuse to tell Oedipus the truth?
He doesn't want the responsibility
Why doesn't Creon want to be king?
They aren't going to accuse Oedipus without proof. So they side with Oedipus because he is the king.
Why don't the citizens believe Teiresias?
Oedipus accused him without any proof
Why is Creon upset with Oedipus?
Creon is trying to convince the people that he is not the traitor so that they don't kill him.
Why is it significant that Creon appears without Oedipus as Scene 2 opens?
The Shepard who was the sole survivor of Lauis' traveling group turns out to be the same man who did what earlier?
He was the one who was given a baby by the queen and king of Thebes and was order to get ride of it on a mountain but he instead gave it to another shepard in corin.
What puts Oedipus's fears of killing his father to rest?
His father died of sickness, and Oedipus had nothing to do with it
What in messenger's news accounts for Oedipus's brief sense of joy and relief?
His father died, therefore he did not murder his "father" and the prophecy would not come true
What character trait does Oedipus' killing of Laius enforce? What will probably prove to be this traits dramatic significance?
His impectiousness, his anger. May prove to be his tragic flaw.
What horrible fact with regard to Oedipus' marriage does the Chorus point out?
His marriage is doomed
3
How many characters aloud on stage at once?
4
How many kids does Jocasta and Oedipus have?
What was Oedipus trying to do when he finds his wife/mother dead?
Hurt her with a weapon
Oedipus shows himself to be clever and reasourceful in prologue: (quote)
I acted at once. I sent Creon to...Delphi
Oedipus is strangely confident before the shapers arrival: (quote)
I count myself the son of Chance...I'll never see myself disgraced
When Oedipus tells Jocasta his story he explains he heard hints of his background in Corinth and questioned his parents but wasn't stained, said that.....(typically tenacious): (quote)
I had to make my move
ironic statement of Oedipus regarding Lauis, when he hears of the kings murder: (quote)
I will fight for him as if he were my father
Accusing Tieresias of being blind without proof, accusing Creon without proof, thinks highly of himself says "I must rule", fights with Tieresias and Creon
In responding to the choragus, what evidence of hubris do we see in Oedipus?
What do Jocasta and Oedipus do when they realize the truth?
Jocasta hangs herself and Oedipus blinds himself
Why does Jocasta say that the oracles are not to be feared?
Jocasta says not to trust oracles because they do not really know of the future, and if God wishes for the truth to be found, he will make it so.
What information does Jocasta give to Oedipus about the son of Laius?
Jocasta tells Oedipus that the son of Laius was taken to the top of a mountain with ankles shackled together and left to die. Therefore, he could not be the son or murderer of Laius.
What does Creon demand that the sentry do?
King Creon demands that the sentry bring him the man who broke his decree and buried a traitor
Who does the messenger claim is "a walking dead man"?
King Creon is a walking dead man
Oedipus believes that Creon wants what?
Kingship, wealth, & Oedipus' good name.
King of Thebes who was killed at a place where three roads meet.
Laios
What genera comment on human life does the Chorus make basesd on the example of oedipus?
Life is cursed and unblessed
What future dose Oedipus foresee for his two daughters?
Life without marriage because who would want to marry into their cursed family
Oedipus becomes extremely desperate to see the shepard and refuses to take notice of Jocasta's pleas: (quote)
Listen to you? No more. I must know it all, must see the truth at last.
Oedipus is shown to be very pious at first: (quote)
Lord Apollo let him come with a lucky word of rescue
What is is about Jocasta's explanation that upsets Oedipus?
Oedipus is upset because when she says that he was murdered at a place where three roads met, Oedipus has startling memories.
Is blinding an appropriate punishment? why doesnt he commit suicide?
Yes, he doesnt want to see the people he as hurt. He doesnt commit suicide because he wants to live in shame and darkness and doesnt want to see his mother and father in heaven.
Who is the god who must not be made angry, according to Ode 2?
Zeus must not be made angry or those who do will suffer his wrath.
apostraphe
a figure of speech in which a speaker addresses a dead or non-present entity, an abstract quality or non-human as if it were present
What universal truths about life and human existence are explored and demonstrated by this ancient play?
fate vs free will, knowledge comes at a price, man shouldn't try to rebel against his fate, power can lead to hubris
What does Oedipus promise to do at the end of the Prologos?
find the murderer of Lauis
The Messenger
from Corinth informs Oedipus that King Polybus and Queen Merope of Corinth were not his actual parents. The messenger himself gave Oedipus as a baby to the Corinthian king and queen. He got the baby from a Theban shepherd whom he met in the woods. Oedipus's ankles were pinned together at the time—in Greek, the name "Oedipus" means "swollen ankles."
Feeling Oedipus has when he hears the King of Corinth is dead
relief
Chorus
religious festival
Ode
song sung by Chorus
author of oedipus rex
sophocles
Oedipus, despite being so dismissive is still preoccupied with the curse: (quote)
that fear is always with me
What general lesson does the Chorus draw from Oedipus' Life?
that one is not truly blessed until they reach the end of their lives without sin or ruin
when oedipus and creon are fighting Jocasta enters and rebukes them. What does O tell her and how does she respond?
that the prophet has charged him with Lauis's murder, she says all prophecies are false.
Creon
the brother of Jocasta and uncle of Antigone who became king of Thebes after the fall of Oedipus
What does Jocasta use as evidence that oracles are false?
the delphic oracle told Lauis he would be murdered by his son, when he was in fact killed by thieves and his son cast out as a baby
How do the lines of the chorus differ from other speeches in the play?
the line is directed to the audience.
fate 9
the messanger tells oedipus not to worry about sleeping with his mother becasue his parents arent his real ones
What is the message from the oracle at Delphi with which creon returns?
the murderer is in Thebes and if he is exiled from Thebes the plague with go away
What single clue about the murderer of Kind Laios is revealed?
there is one survivor
what is the chorus' attitude toward old prophecies?
they are not true.
Why did Oedipus leave his home in Corinth?
to avoid killing his father
What does the priest ask Oedipus to do?
to help save them from the plague
Oedipus is vulnerable at the end with the chorus: (quote)
touch the man of grief...Don't be afraid
Oedipus accused Creon of being a
traitor at the opening of scene 2 ode 2
What is the significnace of Delphi?
where the oracle is located
Oedipus' reaction to the messenger's news is first to question him throughly and then sarcastic relief: (quote)
why look to the prophet's hearth...why scan the birds
Confience and arrogance of Creon in act one: (quote)
you pray to the gods, let me answer your prayers
At first Oedipus is polite to Tiresias but once he is crossed he becomes angry and abusive: (quote)
you scum of the earth
By act two Oedipus starts to accuse Creon: (quote)
your plotting to kill me, kill the king
Movement of the chorus from left to right across the stage.
ANTISTROPHE
One of Oedipus daughters
Antigone
Who does Oedipus say is responsible for his actions?
Apollo
Purification of a characters emotions; an emotional release
CATHARSIS
How does Oedipus choose the spokesman of the group of supplicants?
Chooses the closest one.
citizens, elders, and conscience
Chorus represents
Infant Oedpius had been left in the shadow of mount
Cithairon
Oedipus shows deep humility with Creon when he comes to him: (quote)
Coming so generously to me, the worst of men
In what ways does Creon's behavior contrast from Oedipus'?
Creon is calm and reasonable. Oedipus is rash and stubborn.
Where did Oedipus send Creon at the beginning of the play?
To the Pythian oracle
According to Ode 4, who was locked away in a brazen vault?
Danae was locked in a brazen vault.
What punishment does Oedipus believe Creon deserves for plotting against him?
Death
What acts of hubris do Oedipus and Jocasta commit?
Disbelief in the prophecy.
That Laius' killer must be found
What does Creon report?
What does Haimon claim is God's crowning gift to man?
Haimon claims that the ability to reason is God's crowning gift to man.
He saved the city so they gave him the crown; he didnt ask for it
How did Oedipus get the crown?
Oedipus sees concessions as weakness and is obsessed with his status: (quote)
No matter what - I must rule
Teiresias
can not see earth things but he can see the future
What does Oedipus learn from the shepherd?
Oedipus is the son of Laius and Jocasta.
destiny
Oedipus can't escape
Who is creon?
Oedipus' brother in law/ uncle
Episode
character's interactions
King of Corinth who raised the abandoned infant Oedipus.
Polybos
Questioned by Oedipus, the messenger also reveals that
Polybus and Merope are not Oedipus' real mother and father
What does the messanger tell Oedipus?
Polybus and Merope were not his biological parents, he himself took him as a baby to the royal family
According to the chorus, what is considered a virtue?
Reverence to the gods is considered a virtue
Oedipus Rex, Oedipus at Colonus, and Antigone
The Oedipus Trilogy:
Who, as a child, had "raced with young colts on the glittering hills/And walked untrammeled in open light"?
The daughter of the god of the North Wind was that child. She was also the mother of the two blinded boys.
Oedipus because he is the king and they are scared of him.
With whom does the chorus finally side, Oedipus or Teiresias? What purpose might the playwright have had in making this decision?
Oedipus because you never go against the one who has the power
With whom does the chorus finally side, Oedipus or Teiresias? What purpose might the playwright have had in making this decision?
Which three characters speak in the prologue of the play? what attitude does Oedipus assume toward the suppliants seeking his help?
Oedipus, priest and creon.
Oedipus starts out paternal: (quote)
Oh my children
How would you describe the mood of this play?
Ominous, gloomy, suspenseful
parados
Opening song as the chorus makes its entrance
What is King Creon's decree?
Polyneices was considered a traitor by King Creon for attacking the city of Thebes. Polyneices body was not permitted to be buried, but left for the scavenger birds and dogs to eat. Eteocles was to receive a hero's burial.
Oedipus is vulnerable at the end with Creon: (quote)
Promise me noble Creon, touch my hand
tragedy
Serious play in which the main character suffers from a flaw
Who does Antigone blame for her terrible misfortune?
She blames the sins of her father, Oedipus for her misfortune.
Why does Jocasta tell Oedipus about her baby?
She gave it to a messenger to go kill the baby.
Who is Eurydice?
She is Creon's wife and the mother of Haimon.
How does Jocasta respond to the messenger's story?
She is horribly upset and begs Oedipus to stop asking questions
What is unusual about Jocasta's initial reaction when Oedipus reveals the accusation against him?
She is not surprised.
What is Ismene's decision regarding the King's decree?
She is too afraid of recrimination to help Antigone.
What reason does Jocasta offer for not believing Tiresias?
She says the seer is predicted wrongly that Laius would be killed by his Kid.
why do the Theban citizens come to Oedipus at the beginning of the play?
The citizens want Oedipus to save them from the plague.
According to Apollo's oracle, why has the plague hit Thebes?
The city is harboring a murderer
Why has the death of King Laius not been thoroughly investigated?
The city of Thebes was concerned with the riddle of the sphinx, and didn't have time or worry for other problems
What city has "seven gates in a yawning ring"?
The city of Thebes.
What is the house of Cadmus?
The city of Thebes.
Once again, in whose voice does the Chorus speak?
The commoners
What important truth about his life does Creon point out to Oedipus?
That all things have its time and Oedipus needs to stop trying to control everything
What suspicion does Oedipus begin to harbor about Creon?
That creon and Teiresais are planning to overthrough him
What does it tell us about Oedipus that he seems to be ignorant with regard to the details of Laius's death?
That he believes he can find the murderer easily or that they will hand themselves over
What does Teiresais predict will happen to Oedipus?
That he will be ruined and expelled from Thebs.
What does Teiresias say when he arrives?
That he will not tell who did it
What does Oedipus announce to the Theban people?
That if any man confesses, he will only be banished That he too will be punished if he helps the killer That if anyone knows who killed Laius, he should come forward
What detail of her story catches Oedipus's attention?
That the baby she sent to be killed had a nail stuck between its two feet.
hat advice does the Choragos give King Creon once Teiresias leaves?
The Choragos advises Creon to quickly "free Antigone from the vault and build a tomb for Polyneices" in order to appease the gods' anger.
Whose point, King Creon's or Haimon's, does the Choragos support?
The Choragos claims that both speak well. It is an effort to seek compromise.
Whose voices does the Chorus represent?
Theban commoners
What did King Creon and the messenger do as soon as they finished their tasks regarding Polyneices?
They hurried to the vault to set Antigone free.
How does the chorus react to her words?
They still want to wait for the messenger to arrive.
How does the chorus react to Teiresais' accusations?
They tell Oedipus to calm down
How does the priest say the supplicants view Oedipus? How does this begin to establish Oedipus as an Aristotlelian tragic hero?
They view Oedipus as a main force of men, making him a tragic hero due to events happening later in the plot.
Oedipus
sees himself as the only one in charge
Oedipus follows his own edict and goes into
self exile
after Oedipus discovers information on the murder of Lauis, what does he do?
send for Tiresias to ask what he knows about the murder
Chorus
The Chorus - In this play, the chorus represents the elder citizens of Thebes, reacting to the events of the play. The chorus speaks as one voice, or sometimes through the voice of its leader. It praises, damns, cowers in fear, asks or offers advice, and generally helps the audience interpret the play.
Who does Oedipus believe are his parents?
The King and Queen of Corin
Oedipus presses Jocasta for details of Lauis' murder and realises he may be the one who killed Lauis. He decides to
send for the shepard who survived the attack
what initial step does oedipus indicate to do?
send his brother in law to the oracle in Delphi
what is jocastas motive for discourage oedpius from speaking to the herdsman
she wants to prevent oedipus from learning the truth
oracle
someone who can see the future
What 3 requests does Oedipus make to Creon?
take care of his daughters, bury Jocasta, and be banished from Thebes
Chorus talks about the heart of mortals. what does this mean?
We tend to lose respect for the gods just like jocasta did. We arent suppose to know the truths. you feel less rverent when you know the truth.
The murderer is still in the city
What single clue about the murder of King Laius is revealed by Creon?
To the Pythian oracle
Where did Oedipus send Creon at the beginning of the play?
Who came to the princess while she was locked away?
Zeus came to Danae in her vault in the form of golden rain.
Jocasta
_______ came to break up Oedipus and Creon
Oedipus
a tragic king of Thebes who unknowingly killed his father Laius and married his mother Jocasta
Oedpius is so determined to discover the murder of Laius
an oracle in pytho said he was destined to kill his father and marry his mother.
When the Chorus see Oedipus has blinded himself they pity him but: (quote)
can't bear to look
Leader of the chorus
choragos
what does Oedipus threaten Creon with and why?
death or exile for conspiring with the prophet
Jocasta
does not believe in prophecies.
When Oedipus breaks into Jocatsa's room he finds she has hung herself and he: (quote)
eased her down in a slow embrace and laid her down
fate 3
jocasta uses the prophecy of how Lauis's son was supposed to have killed him as evidence against prophecy
How would helping find Laius's murderer help Oedipus?
It would settle the city and lift the plague, as well as prevent the murderer from doing the same to Oedipus
Why does Jocasta tell Oedipus and Creon to take their quarrel into the house?
Jocasta tells the men to take their argument inside because the rest of the city is already burdened with the plague and the citizens do not need any other concerns.
What does Oedipus ask of the citizens of Thebes?
Banishment
What does Jocasta say about oracles?
She said that they are not always right.
the chorus show deep affection for Oedipus: (quote)
Oedipus- son, dear child
What clue does Jocasta give that she fears, indeed, that Oedipus is her son/husband and was the murderer of Laius?
The messenger says that the child had his ankles shackled together, therefore the prophecy was true
Who had reported to Jocasta the news about the death of Laius?
The murder of Laius was reported to Jocasta by a servant who was there, and was the only one to return alive
Teiresias is blind but he can see the future. the comparison is between which on of the 2 characters is sightful to the truth or blind of the truth.
What comparison does Oedipus make between himself and seers such as Teiresias? What does this tell us about Oedipus?
That he will not tell who did it
What does Teiresias say when he arrives?
Teiresias
Who does Creon advise Oedipus to send for?
The Sphinx was attacking the city
Why didn't anyone investigate Laius's murder at the time?
Creon tells the citizen's that he is not a traitor because if they believe he is a traitor then they will kill him.
Why is it significant that Creon appears without Oedipus as Scene 2 opens?
He saved the city from the Sphinx
Why is the chorus astonished at Teiresias' claims?
they are shocked that they would kill the king because Oedipus saved them from the sphinx.
Why is the chorus astonished at Teiresias' claims?
There is a plague in the city
Why is the priest asking the gods for help?
Does Oedipus propose a just punishment for the murder of Laius?
Yes, if the person isn't removed the city will die
Oedipus explains he was blinded himself because he can't bear to look on what he's done: (quote)
You'll see no more the pain I've suffered, all the pain i've caused!
Who is Tiresias?
a blind prophet
According to the Chorus, what can the man who does not heed justice, and who tries to out wit the gods expect?
...
What can be expected by the man who does not heed Justice, and who tries to outwit the Gods?
...
In order to rescue Thebes from the plague, the murderer of Laius must be found and ...
...be exiled or killed.
The details of King Laius' murder are important to Oedipus because...
...he is putting the pieces together & sense his responsibility
At the beginning of the play, the people of Thebes believe that Oedipus can deliver them from the plague because...
...he is their king and hero.
Oedipus proved that pride ruled everything he did...
...in killing Laius and his retainers
Natural Law vs. Man made law (Antigone)
a.The wishes of the gods and her sense of duty to her brother are both examples of natural law. To Antigone, these outweigh any human laws. b.Sophocles explores this tension and seems to suggest—through Antigone's martyrdom, the people's sympathy, and Creon's downfall—that the laws of the state should not contradict natural laws
Tiresias responds to Oedipus cryptically, leading Oedipus to curse the old man. He goes as far as to
accuse Tiresias of the murder, Tiresias then reveals that Oedipus did in fact do it
Thespian
an actor was called
How would you describe Oedipus' response to them?
Empathetic
Scene in a play
Episode
the chorus express a desire for
calm and stability
how does the Oedipus begin?
citizen gather outside the palace and ask Oedipus to take action
what does jocasta do to himself?
commit suicide
The Shepherd
he former servant of King Laius who took pity on the baby Oedipus and spared his life. The shepherd was also an eyewitness to the death of King Laius. When Oedipus commands the shepherd to tell him what he knows about Oedipus's origins, the shepherd refuses, and only relents under punishment of death.
Which negative characteristic does Oedipus show in the confrontation with Tiresias about the blind prophet's refusal to reveal his secret?
he has a short temper
what does Creon represent in the play?
the need for law and a stable society
Why does Oedipus insist that he will seek out and avenge Laius' murderer?
As Laius and Jocasta had no children, Oedipus will take on the cause of revenge "as if" Laius were his own father.
What is Oedipus and Creon's relationship?
Brother in Law
Why must Oedipus seek Creon's permission to go into exile? Why does Creon not grant it immediately?
Creon had just as much power, since Creon, Jocasta and Oedipus now rule together.
Explain the Chorus' statement, "All-seeing time discovered you unwilling." Why is this concept central to the play?
Even though Oedipus tried to escape his fate, it found him anyway.
For whose sake does Oedipus finally free Creon?
For the sake of the people of Thebes.
Why does Sophocles use interrogation as a means of exposition rather than show the scenes of Laius' death and Oedipus' encounter with him?
Has to do with time. Uses it as a flashback
What is Oedipus' reaction to Creon's information?
He immediately asks questions about the circumstances of Laius' murder, presumably in order to help find the murderers and purge the city.
What is Oedipus' reaction to Tiresias' revelations? Of what does he accuse Tiresias?
He is enraged. He accuses Tiresias of envy and trying to take the throne.
How does Oedipus respond to the news of his fathers death?
He is likewise pleased, for the same reason.
What is ironic about the curse Oedipus places on the murderer of Laius?
He is placing the curse upon himself
Why does Tiresias at first seem to refuse to help Oedipus?
He knows that Oedipus is the culprit
What impression do we get from Oedipus based on his language?
He seems to be a good king, but seems incredibly proud and arrogant.
What theory does Oedipus immediately develop about Laius' death?
He suspects that the killer is among them.
What does Creon say that persuades Jocasta to urge Oedipus to believe him?
He takes an oath.
Why did Oedipus kill the men at the crossroads?
He was angry at them because they pushed him off the road.
In this speech, Oedipus refers to Laius' descendants as "ill-fated," but to his own good fortune in obtaining Laius' throne as driven by "chance." Explain the difference between these two concepts, and why Oedipus might choose to characterize these events in different ways.
In contrast to the term chance, he thinks that his life is governed by chance.
Why does Jocasta believe Oedipus and Creon should be ashamed of themselves?
It is wrong for the two leaders to be pursuing a private quarrel in public when the country at large is suffering so much.
Why does Sophocles have a messenger describe the scene of Jocasta's suicide and Oedipus' disfigurement instead of portraying them?
It was a convention of Greek drama that are performed on stage.
Why would the Chorus assert that no one is better able to end the feud between Oedipus and Creon than Jocasta?
Jokaste is both Creon's sister and Oedipus' husband.
The truth revealed to Oedipus, what does Tiresias predict for him?
Oedipus accuses Tiresias of being blind
How does Oedipus try to discredit Tiresias?
Oedipus asks why, if Tiresias is such a gifted seer, was he unable to solve the riddle of the Sphinx.
Why does Oedipus claim he suffers even more than the supplicants?
Oedipus claims that each supplicant suffers only for himself individually while he, Oedipus,suffers for the individual subject, his subjects generally, and for himself.
Why is Oedipus excited by the messengers information? Whom does he insist on questioning?
Oedipus is excited by the possibility of finding out his true parentage, because he has long wondered about the truth. He insists on questioning the shepherd who handed him over to the messenger as a baby. This shepherd is also the same man who survived the attack on Laius.
What does Tiresias mean when he predicts, "This very day will sire you and destroy you?"
Oedipus is going to learn who his father is.
Why does Tiresias say that Oedipus, of all people, should understand his riddles?
Oedipus is known as a great riddle solver because he figured out the riddle of the Sphinx.
Explain the irony of Oedipus calling himself wise.
Oedipus knows the least about the situation of everyone, including the audience.
What does Oedipus promise to do? Why, according to Oedipus, must his resolution be strong?
Oedipus promises to avenge the murder of Laius. He feels it is his duty as king to save his people and also believes that the person who killed Laius may do the same to him: "[W]hoever killed King Laios might--who knows?-/Lay violent hand even on me.." (141-142; 1222)
How is Tiresias' response to being ordered to leave comic and ironic? What traits of Oedipus' does this emphasize?
Oedipus tells him to leave and never come back. Stubborness, lack of thought.
How will Oedipus determine whether he was the man who killed Laius?
Oedipus will send for the one survivor who was with Laius the day the king and his men were killed. If this survivor says that several men were responsible, then Oedipus will know he is innocent, because he was alone when he murdered the men at the crossroads.
Whom does the Chorus believe, Oedipus or Tiresias? Why?
Oedipus, because he saved them from the Riddle of the Sphinx and they are not sure if they can trust prophecies.
How does the Chorus serve as the "conscience" of the play?
Reminds him that this is no time to argue but to consult with Tiresias in order to fulfill the Oracle.
What is Jocasta's opinion of soothsayers? On what does she base this opinion?
She has no faith in them.
What does Creon report from the Oracle?
The killer of Laius has to be exiled or killed to end the plague.
Goaded into anger by Oedipus, what does Tiresias finally tell him?
The truth.
What problem is afflicting the city of Thebes?
Thebes is unable to produce any crops, causing a famine. A plague.
Oedipus believes that the gods hate him more than any other man. Does anything justify their hatred? Why do you think Oedipus has been chosen to live out such a terrible fate?
There is little that apparently justifies the gods' hatred of Oedipus. He was simply cursed from birth because of his father's misdeed.
During the dialogue between Oedipus and the shepard, what happens to their lines as they get closer to the revelation of the truth?
They become shorter and faster.
What is ironically similar about the reasons Laius attempted to kill his child, and Oedipus fled to Corinth? What does each action suggest about fate and free will?
They each thought they could use their free will to escape fate.
Why did the citizens of Thebes not investigate Laius' murder at the time it occurred?
They were preoccupied with the Sphinx
How does this speak to the central issue of the play?
This issue of why Oedipus was cursed speaks to the question: how much control do we have over our own lives? Regardless of Oedipus' good deeds and noble qualities, he was chosen to live out a terrible fate, not because of any wrongdoing on his part. The Greeks felt the gods became angry with people who were guilty of pride, and Oedipus certainly was, so perhaps that justifies his fate in some way. He also attempted to escape the will of the gods through free will. He could not, however, be blamed for his actions with Iokaste, as he had no knowledge that what he did was wrong.
Explain what Tiresias means by his first statement to Oedipus.
This knowledge will hurt Oedipus.
What prophecy for Oedipus does he reiterate?
Tiresias predicts that Oedipus will be physically blind as well, referring to how he will gouge his eyes out before he is exiled from Thebes.
What happened to the servant who survived the attack on Laius?
When he saw that Oedipus became king, he asked Jocasta to send him from the city to tend flocks.
Even in Oedipus' first speech there is a hint of pride: (quote)
my children...my altar...the world know my fame: I am Oedipus
fate 6
oedipus think while travelling he killed his father unwittingly
Choragos
only the _____ can speak directly to the other characters
According to Ode 3, what is it that "even the pure Immortals cannot escape"?
"Even the pure Immortals cannot escape" love.
the message of the chorus at the end of the play is one of deep despair, they say
"count no man happy till he dies, free of pain at last"
What connection does the messenger have with oedipus' past? Why does he reveal it now?
He is the one who was given baby Oedipus by the shepard and then gave the baby to the king and queen of corin because they cannot have children.
What do the people think of Oedipus?
He is their hero. They love and respect him.
Outbreak of second Peloponnesian war
431 BC
Prologue, Parados, Episode, Ode, and Exodus
Format of the play
Why does Jocasta's story upset Oedipus?
He killed a man at a crossroads
Oedipus shows concern for his daughters: (quote)
Such disgrace and you must bear it all!
The play take place?
Thebes
blind prophet
Tiresias
Why did Oedipus leave Corinth?
he was afraid of what the oracle said
Parados
opening song
How is Oedipus' opening speech ironic?
He promises to find the murder of Lauis and to kill him but Oedipus himself is the murderer of Lauis.
What is foreshadowed by Oedipus' promise to the priest?
He said that he will do whatever the oracle demands.
Oedipus tells Creon, showing the extent of self loathing: (quote)
Never condemn the city of my fathers to house my body
When was the Oedipus first produced? what was going on then?
429 BC, the second Peloponnesian war
When was the first Peloponnesian war and who was it against?
460 BC
What is the "half remembered tale of horror" that old men tell?
A king's new woman, sick with hatred for the queen he had imprisoned, ripped out his two sons' eyes with her bloody hands.
What made Oedipus go to the oracle when he was young?
A man called him a bastard
What thought has rankled Oedipus for years?
A man said that he was only the son in the imagination of his father, and Oedipus was disturbed at the thought
Aechlysus
Added a second character (antagonist) and dialog (conflict)
What happened when the prophet began "the rites of burnt-offering at the altar"?
Although Teiresias claimed that Hephaistos failed him because he could not start a fire on the altar, the fat from the animal's thigh melted, the entrails dissolved, and bare bones burst forth from the body.
In what ways is Oedipus blind according to Tiresias?
Although he can physically see, he is blind to the situation.
Oedipus insists on getting the truth out of the shepherd: (quote)
And I'm at the edge of hearing hours, yes, but I must hear
What reason does Antigone give for defying Creon's decree?
Antigone believes that the laws of God concerning the burial of the dead are more important than any of man's laws, including Creon's.
Whose fate does Antigone compare to her own?
Antigone compares her fate to that of Niobe, Tantalos' daughter
Why is Creon so furious with Oedipus?
Because Oedipus has accused him of committing the murder
What is Oedipus' tone in the long speech beginning?
Confidence, he feels very confident to rid the land of the plague.
Euripides
Created psychologically complex characters
In the argument between Oedipus and Creon, which character makes a stronger case?
Creon
he took over as the king of thebes
Creon
What does Jocasta fear Oedipus will learn if he continues to seek the truth of his parentage?
Iokaste clearly fears that Oedipus will learn that he is the son of Jocasta and Laius; that he did indeed murder his father and marry his mother.
ismene
Ismene - Daughter of Oedipus and half-sister of Oedipus. Like Antigone, Ismene is a small child and appears only at the end of the play when her father says goodbye to her.
Why is Antigone angry with Ismene?
Ismene wants to share in Antigone's guilt and punishment for burying Polyneices, yet she had refused to help her sister bury their brother
How do you feel about Oedipus? Do you see him as a victim of cruel fate or as a man who at least partly to blame for his own sorrow.
Its all his fault.
Who stops the quarrel between Oedipus and Creon?
Jocasta
Wife of Laios and Oedipus
Jocasta
Why does Oedipus decided to release Creon?
Jocasta asked him to
The priest seems to agree with Oedipus' high opinon of himself in the prologus: (quote)
Now we pray to you...we rate you first of men
Oedipus
Teiresias says the murder is
What exposition does the priest provide in this scene?
The Priest reminds the audience that Oedipus is the hero who solved the riddle of the sphinx(the "fell songstress") and freed the city of Thebes from its bondage.
How did the guards manage to capture Antigone?
The sentries had gone back to Polyneices' buried body and removed the dirt, thereby unburying it. They then sat back to watch who would come to bury it again.
Who has the sentry captured and brought before King Creon?
The sentry brought Antigone, the king's niece, to Creon.
Why did Jocasta's servant ask to be sent to the fields to be a shepherd?
The servant asked to become a shepherd to escape the city that the king once ruled
Whom do Oedipus and Jocasta send for?
The sole survivor of the mass killing.
According to the Chorus when is the only appropriate time to call a man "blessed"?
The time of a mans death
Father of Greek Theatre
Thespis
Prologue
background info
Greek Drama
based on a religious festival to Dionsyus the god of wine and fertility
Why do Oedipus and Teiresias quarrel?
because Teiresias refuses to talk.
Why does Jocasta suddenly beg Oedipus to forget all this and stop asking questions?
because she now knows Oedipus is her son but Oedipus thinks its because she will be embarrassed if she finds out he is from slaves.
scapegoat
blamed someone else
How can Tiresias be described?
blind seer of the future
Oedipus in prologue shows he cares an unhealthy amount for his people: (quote)
but my spirit grieves for the city, for myself and all of you
Exodus
exiting; chorus provides the moral
last song of the play, usually contains a moral lesson
exodous
infamy
famous for the wrong reasons
They will follow the killer wherever he goes.
furies
Why can't Oedipus understand the information Teiresais does give to him?
he is stubbourn and quick to anger
what did the shepherd do with the baby he was ordered to kill?
he takes him to Corinth and is raised by the childless King Polybus.
Why is Oedipus eager to question the man who witnessed Laius' murder?
he wants to make sure if the murderer acted alone
Oedipus
is not from Thebes
fate 1
oedipus sends creon to find out Thebes' fate and make it healthy
fate 5
oedipus tells of how he left corinth to avoid his fate and on the way gets in a skirmish with other travellers
. The prophet Teiresias, when asked by Oedipus to help rescue the city,
is very reluctant to cooperate
How does Sophocles involve the chorus in the play's action?
leader interacts with Oedipus
When Oedipus comes into the palace after hearing the truth from the shepherd he starts circling around, "......", almost seems dehumanised
like a maddened beast
The Chorus says that Teiresias is in
lying in Ode I
Describe the effects of the plague that has struck Thebes.
people are sick and starving and looking for the king help them.
How did Perciles and his sons die + date
plague, 429 BC
Dionysius - god of wine, fertility
plays were originally written for
What is Jocasta doing the next time she leaves the palace?
praying to the gods
Hubris
pride, believing that one is as good or better than the gods
denouncement
resolution of the main conflict of the play
play that comically portrayed mythological stories or poked fun at politics
satyr
what message does Creon bring when he returns from the oracle?
the plague will end when the murder of Lauis, former king of Thebes
Joscasta believes that polybus' death means
the prophecy was false, as Oedipus did not murder his 'father'
fate 10
the shepard confirms that he gave Jocatsa's baby to the messanger
What prevented Thebes from finding the murderer of Laius?
the spinx
Furies
the voice of Justice
what did odepius do at a place where three roads meet?
he committed murder
How does Creon treat Oedipus in this final section.
Respectfully
Laius
Who is Oedipus' father?
location of apollo's temple
delphi
How did Antigone react to being captured by the sentries?
Antigone did not resist, but went with the sentries willingly.
Besides being Antigone's uncle, how else were Creon and Antigone related?
Antigone was engaged to marry Creon's son, Haimon.
What is to be Antigone's punishment for burying her brother?
Antigone will be put to death.
Who is the most concern about Laios's murder?
Apollo
Who are Pallas and Apollo?
Apollo represents Sun and truth
What news does Creon bring with him when he returns? What possible reasons are there for his suggesting that he reveal his news in private?
Apollo says that Thebes is full of guilt, and the "plague" will end after the guilt is banished (search for the murderer of Laius and punish him). Creon may have suggested telling the news inside so that the city would not be buzzing with rumors and half true tales of the search for Laius's murderer.
Priest of Zeus
At the very beginning, he implores Oedipus to do something about the plague that is killing so many people. He celebrates Oedipus's past accomplishments and begs him to "defend his former glory." By his former glory he means Oedipus defeating the sphinx when he became king of Thebes.
The Chrous prays to _____.
Athena, Artemis, & Apollo for help.
Why does Oedipus believe that his daughters are doomed?
Because no one will love the child of a king who murdered his father, and they are doomed with the same curse
According to the chorus, why will they not condemn Oedipus at this point in the action?
Because the city is full of rumors and they need proof before they can accuse anyone of the actions.
Why is Jocasta so sure that the prophecy is not to be trusted?
Because the servants said robbers and not a robber, therefore it cannot be Laius
What symbolism and/or irony is there in Oedipus's act of self-inflicted punishment?
Before, he was attempting to outsmart the gods, now he is punishing himself as they would have
how would you describe Jocasta's view of the prophet and prophecies?
Blindness led to the truth, and truth led to blindness. Oedipus, Teiresias, and Jocasta were all blind, yet all found the truth.
City in which Oedipus was raised
Corinth
What were Creon and the messenger doing when they prayed to Hecate and Pluto?
Creon and the messenger were bathing the corpse of Polyneices with holy water before they burned what was left of it. They then "heaped up a towering barrow/Of earth of his own land" over the urn.
What is King Creon's reaction to Teiresias' message?
Creon becomes angry with Teiresias and refuses to yield.
Why is Creon intent on harshly punishing, even family members, all those who break the law?
Creon believes that his people will not obey or have respect for him if he is lenient with family members.
How does Creon believe the act of burying Polyneices was carried out?
Creon believes that the sentries were paid off by his enemies and they were bribed to bury Polyneices' body
What is it that Creon claims all prophets love?
Creon claims that all prophets love gold.
What does Creon sarcastically say would have man singing forever?
Creon claims that if the singing of dirges and planned lamentations could put off death, men would sing forever.
How does King Creon react to the advice of the Choragos?
Creon finally admits to his pride and says that he himself will go to set Antigone free.
What does the prophet claim to be the cause of the gods' reaction to their offerings?
Creon has brought about the anger of the gods with his decree about Polyneices and now the animals offered for sacrifice are the same animals that have been eating of Polyneices' body in the field. Because of this, the animals are unclean and not fit for sacrifice.
Blindness vs. Sight (antigone)
Creon is blinded by pride—his unwillingness to compromise, to listen to the opinions of his people, or to appear to be defeated by a woman. The blind Tiresias can see that the gods are angry and that tragedy will strike if Creon doesn't rethink his decision and change his mind. Creon lacks the insight to see this. In that sense, he is blind.
How did the new King of Thebes claim heir to the throne?
Creon is the brother-in-law of the previous king, Oedipus. When Oedipus' two sons were killed in battle, Creon was the next male in line for the throne.
What does the prophet claim can be done to repair the evil performed against the gods?
Creon is told that he can admit he was wrong and that he can make amends to the gods by burying Polyneices and by releasing Antigone.
Describe what Creon saw when he looked through the crevice into Antigone's tomb.
Creon saw Haimon weeping over Antigone's dead body. She had hanged herself with her own veil. Haimon was holding her body close to him and crying that "his father had stolen her away from him"
Why doesn't Creon want to be king (and thus would not have plotted against Oedipus)
Creon says he doesn't want to be king because he does not want the stress or fear of being king when he can have all the same power and the same standing without all the duties of being king.
What does Creon say that men pray for?
Creon says that men pray for sons who are attentive and dutiful to their fathers.
While Creon is ranting at his son, what does the king threaten to do?
Creon threatens to execute Antigone, Haimon's fiancée, in front of him.
What message about the plague does Creon bring? Where did he get this message?
Creon when to the oricale and found out that the killer of Lauis must be expelled from Thebes in order for the plague to subside.
Describe Creon's death sentence for Antigone.
Creon will have Antigone locked in a stone vault out in the wilderness. She will be given some provisions of food, and if she is able to escape, then it will be because her gods took pity on her
In accusing Creon of conspiring with Tiresias Oedipus shows how quickly he jumps to conclusions, he's says: (quote)
Creon! Is this his conspiracy or yours?
Who is now to be the ruler of Thebes? What is ironic about this?
Creon, and it is ironic because in the beginning, Oedipus didn't trust Creon and thought he was Laius's murderer and Creon didn't want to be king
Who is the new King of Thebes?
Creon, brother-in-law to Oedipus, is the new king of Thebes
At first with Creon Oedipus is polite: (quote)
Creon, my prince, my kinsman,
antigone
Daughter of Oedipus and half-sister of Oedipus. Still a small child in Oedipus Rex, Antigone appears at the end to bid farewell to her father. She is the main character of Sophocles's Antigone
Oedipus shows he is humbled to find the chorus still speaking to him: (quote)
Dear friend, still here?...Such compassion
Who "bore the gods' prisoning anger for his pride"?
Dryas' son
What happened after the messenger relayed the news about Haimon and Antigone to Eurydice?
Eurydice walked silently into the house, went to the altar and killed herself.
Oedipus identifies the citizens of Thebes as "generations of the living in the line of Kadmos." who was Kadmos?
First king of thebes
Thebes is compared to a ship
Give a example of symbolism in the story
According to the Choragos, what does God hate?
God hates "the bray of bragging tongues." He hates those who arrogantly brag of their successes.
How does the city feel about Antigone's crime?
Haimon claims that the city of Thebes does not view Antigone as a criminal
Of all the winds, man has made himself secure against all except one. Which wind is that?
Man has not secured himself against the wind of death.
According to Ode 1, what is the most wonderful of all the world's wonders?
Man is the most wonderful of all the world's wonders.
Queen of Corinth feared by Oedipus
Merope
Which character begins the play? Why might Sophocles have selected this character to introduce this play?
Oedipus because he is the main character
Upon further questioning for more information from the herdsman, what does Oedipus think he is going to discover about his origins?
Oedipus believes he will realize his true parents and where he is from.
why does oedipus send for tiresias?
Oedipus calls upon the Chorus to reveal anything they know about the murder. They know little & suggest Oedipus send for Tiresias for more information.
Teiresias knows but he doesn't want to have to reveal it to Oedipus because he knows Oedipus will want to kill him.
Oedipus had to send for Teiresias twice. What does this reveal about Teiresias and his knowledge of Laius' murder?
scared because he knows who the killer is and he knows that it i Oedipus.
Oedipus had to send for Teiresias twice. What does this reveal about Teiresias and his knowledge of Laius' murder?
Why is Creon upset at the beginning of part 2?
Oedipus has accused him of plotting to steal the throne
How does Oedipus react to Tiresias' accusation?
Oedipus is outraged and accuses the prophet of plotting w/ Creon to overthrow him.
Oedipus assumes Creon is behind these charges because he wants to become king so he paid Teiresias to say that.
Oedipus is outraged by Teiresias' claims. Whom does Oedipus assume is behind these charges? Why?
Creon because he thinks Creon wants the kingship.
Oedipus is outraged by Teiresias' claims? Whom does Oedipus assume is behind these charges? Why?
Power and Hubris (Oedipus)
Oedipus is proud enough in his abilities and thinks he is capable of outsmarting the gods, becoming over confident/cocky which leads to his failure from running from his fate
How does Jocasta respond to the realization of the truth of their situation?
She hangs herself
How does Oedipus persuade/coerce the reluctant man to continue speaking?
Oedipus threatens to kill the herdsman if he does not continue talking
Why does Oedipus summoned him?
Oedipus wants help finding Laius' murderer
What does Oedipus think about this clue? what might it foreshadow?
Oedipus wants to find the surveyor
What speeches establish this mood?
Oedipus' opening speech & Tiresias' prediction of Oedipus' fate
signifies that Oedipus will find peace for the city.
Of what symbolic significance are the olive boughs that Oedipus tells the petitioners to lift as they depart?
Olive branches were a sign of peace
Of what symbolic significance are the olive boughts that Oedipus tells the petitioners to lift as they depart?
How do we learn about Jocastas death and Oedipus' self punishment?
Officials tell the chorus.
After Jocasta re-emerges from the palace and prays to Apollo for deliverance, a messenger from Corinth arrives. What news does he bring?
Polybus is dead
a messanger comes to Jocasta to inform her
Polybus is dead and Corinth want Oedipus to rule
Who is rumored to have killed Laius?
Robbers
movement of the chorus from right to left
STROPHE
Why does Jocasta cast doubt on prophets and prophecies?
She believes she has already escaped Apollo's oracle (correct answer)
Who is the blind prophet who comes to speak to King Creon?
Teiresias is the blind prophet.
pain
Teiresias knows the truth will bring
What warning does Teiresias give to King Creon if he refuses to heed the prophesies?
Teiresias warns Creon that he shall have to "pay back/Corpse for corpse, flesh of [his] own flesh" as punishment for angering the gods.
What is Teiresias's prophesy for Oedipus? What shall be proven about the murder about the murder of Laius?
Teiresias's prophecy for Oedipus said that he would kill his father and marry his mother. Later they come to find out that Oedipus did indeed kill Laius and that he did marry his mother.
What terrible news does the second messenger bring?
That Jocasta is dead
What does Oedipus begin to suspect?
That Jocasta is his mother.
What news does the messenger bring from Corinth?
That Polybus was not Oedipus's father That Corinth wants Oedipus to be its king That Polybus is dead
What do we learn about Oedipus' self image in his opening speech?
That he regards himself highly, he's arrogant, self-assured, thinks he is "almighty"
What does Teiresias answer when Oedipus asks the identity of his father?
That the knowledge will be revealed soon enough and that the knowledge will be devastating are what Teiresias answers when Oedipus asks for his father's identity in "Oedipus Rex" by Sophocles (495 B.C.E. - 405 B.C.E.). Specifically, Teiresias the blind prophet makes the shocking charge that Theban King Oedipus is the killer of his royal predecessor, King Laius. Oedipus comes up with all sorts of insults and threats in return. Teiresias then announces that his prophecies were good enough for Oedipus' parents, which shocks Oedipus but gives him none but riddling answers.
background info, morals, citizen's opinions, and advice
The chorus gave:
How does the chorus (thebian citizens) feel toward Oedipus now that he has been identified as the murderer of their king (his father) and a man who married his father's widow?
The chorus is now afraid of Oedipus
provide background info, provide lessons or morals, and to give the citizen's thoughts
The chorus is used to :
What does this explanation suggest about the ancient Greek beliefs?
The citizens believe the god use natural disaster to punish humans.
Who is represented by the chorus?
The citizens of Thebes
According to Ode 2, who is the fortunate man?
The fortunate man is one "who has never tasted God's vengeance."
What does the Choragos claim is "always punished" by the gods?
The gods always punish "big words" (pride).
As the play opes, what problems plaguing the city of Thebes are described by the priest?
The harvests are dying, livestock is dying, women give no children, citizens are dying, a sort of plaque holds the city
What had the herdsman/shepherd done many years ago?
The herdsman gave the child to a Corinthian to save his life
What news does the messenger bring from Corinth?
The messenger brings that Polybus is dead, and the people of Corinth will make Oedipus their king
Who is the messenger?
The messenger is a shepherd that saved Oedipus as a child
How has Teiresias' prophecy that Creon would pay to the gods "flesh of [his] own flesh" come true?
The messenger reports that Haimon, Creon's son, has killed himself.
What shred of hope does Oedipus have to prove that he was not the murderer of Laius?
The recounting of the story from the servant
What is the sphinx? What is her riddle? What happened to the sphinx after her riddle?
The sphinx is a mythical creature with the head/face of a woman and the body of a lion with the wings of a large bird. Her riddle was: A thing there is whose voice is one; whose feet are four and two and three. So mutable a thing is none that moves in earth or sky or sea. When on most feet this thing doth go, its strength is weakest and its pace must slow. After Oedipus solves the riddle, the sphinx no longer terrorizes the city of Thebes (and possibly dies..?)
How did the two brothers die?
The two were on opposite sides in the recent civil war; they killed each other on the battlefield.
City being destroyed by a plague because of an unsolved murder.
Thebes
In what way does Oedipus the King resemble a mystery story?
There is a murderer, an investigation, and a suspect.
How do Oedipus and the Chorus react to the questions about who Oedipus really is?
They WANT to know the answers
What is the chorus's reaction to Oedipus at this point?
They are afraid of him
How are Antigone and Ismene related?
They are sisters, daughters of Oedipus
Who are the two brothers mentioned in the prologue?
They are the brothers of Antigone and Ismene: Eteocles and Polyneices
How was Thebes tourtured by the Sphix? What happened to Thebes as a result of solving the riddle? what prizes did Thebes give the one who solved the riddle?
They were starved. Thebes was free again. Oedipus won the position of king and married the queen.
What research method is Oedipus encouraged to use to discover the murder?
To ask who the murderer is from Teiresias who is blind
What are the instructions of the oracle for ridding the city of its woes?
To take vengeance on the murderer of Laius
Where has Creon (the Kings kingsman) been sent?
To the oracle Apollo, to find out about the plague
True or False: Oedipus' speech to the chorus is ironic because he isn't a stranger to the story of crime.
True
Thieves or robbers were paid by conspirators or Creon to kill Laius
What are the rumors about Laius's death?
He has all the power without the responsibility. He favors for citizens and tells the king so he has the ear of the king
What argument does Creon make to convince Oedipus that he has no design on the throne?
We realize that Oedipus is very stubborn and prideful. He has hubris.
What character trait is revealed by the fact that Oedipus accuses Creon of treason without first hearing his side?
Oedipus says that Teiresias is blind especially blind to the truth which means that Oedipus is really the blind one and he is the murder
What comparison does Oedipus make between himself and seers such as Teiresias? What does this tell us about Oedipus?
If any man confesses, he will only be banished; if you helped the killer you will be punished too; if anyone knows who killed Laius, he should come foward
What does Oedipus announce to the Theban people?
Find the murder - if someone that isn't the murder speaks up they get a reward.
What does Oedipus decide to do about the former king's death?
Oedipus is freaking out because he is worried that the murderer might try to kill him. This foreshadows Oedipus death
What does Oedipus think about this clue? What might this perception foreshadow?
The foreshadowing is that something is going to happen to Oedipus. He killed Royal Blood
What does Oedipus think about this clue? What might this perception foreshadow?
Irony of inversion of his fist statement at the end: (quote)
What grief can crown this grief. It's mine alone, my destiny - I am Oedipus!
asking the gods for help
What is the priest doing at the beginning of the play?
Delphi is the temple of Apollo, the significance is that the Oracle is there and tells the future,
What is the significance of Delphi?
Delphi is where the Temple of gods is to which Oedipus sent Creon to meet with the oracle to help Thebes
What is the significance of Delphi?
A plague has struck the city of Thebes
What is the situation in Thebes at the beginning of the play?
He has to bring news of rescue -- pay back blood with blood or banish the man because the murder is still in Thebes
What news does Creon bring to Oedipus?
He must be banished or killed
What should happen to the man they will find?
Creon reveals that the murderer is still in the city.
What single clue about the murder of King Laius is revealed by Creon?
Oedipus is the murder and his parents used Teiresias' service (foreshadowing)
What truths does Teiresias present to Oedipus in his speeches following the interpretation of the choragus?
Teiresias knows his parents.
What truths does Teiresias present to Oedipus in his speeches following the interruption of the choragus?
Laius was on his way to see the oracle when he died
What was Laius doing before he died?
The Sphinx has the body of a lion, wings of an eagle, and head of a women
What was the Sphinx?
Body of a lion and head of a woman and wings of an eagle. The riddle of the day.
What was the Sphinx? What was her riddle?
Poetry
What was the play written in?
He had the power but no responsibility, He has influence over the king, and he needed to go to Delphi himself if he thinks Creon is lying
What was the three things Creon defended himself by saying?
What is the most significant complication in this section of the play?
When Jocasta tells the story of her husband's murder, and Oedipus recalls a similar incident
Chorus - In Scene 1 Oedipus goes back and forth with Tieresias. This is another example of his hubris
When the argument between Oedipus and Creon breaks into irrational verbal parrying, who intercedes to remind them of their responsibility? How is this similar to Scene 1?
When is Oedipus finally forced to admit who he really is?
When the shepherd tells him that the child was given to him by Jocasta to take to the mountains and leave him there to die because of a prophecy (the same prophecy Teiresias gave Oedipus)
what was the sphinx? the riddle of the sphinx? what was the answer? who solved the riddle? what happened to the sphinx when the riddle was solved?
a half women and half lion creature the terorized the town of Thebes. The riddle:What walks on four legs in the morning, two legs at midday, and three legs in the evening?. The answer was a baby, man, and elder. Oedipus solved the riddle. The sphinx then through itself onto a rock.
what law had pericles introduced when Oedipus was written?
a law limiting citizenship to parentage on both sides
Who warned Oedipus about his fate?
a prophecy
who spared infant Oedipus's life?
a shepherd
List man's accomplishments according to Ode 1.
a. He conquered the seas. b. He planted and harvested the Earth. c. He has command over the creatures of the earth (birds and fish as well). d. He has created language. e. He has built shelters against the elements. f. He has created government
The Choragos and the Chorus pray to a "God of many names." What are some of these names?
a. Iacchos, son of Kadmeian Semele b. Born of the Thunder c. Guardian of the West Regent of Eleusis' plain d. Prince of Maenad Thebes and the Dragon Field e. Heavenly Child of Semele Bride of Thunderer f. Io Iacche
Aspects of a tragic hero
a. person of noble birth with (potentially) heroic qualities b. fated by the gods/supernatural force to doom and destruction, or some type of suffering c. hero struggles against fate and this conflict wins our admiration d. can't accept diminished view of self e. because of some personality flaw hero fails in struggle against fate
Civil Disobedience (Antgone)
a.Creon is arguing that the law is the basis for justice, so there can be no such thing as an unjust law. Antigone, on the other hand, believes that there are unjust laws, and that she has a moral duty to disobey a law that contradicts what she thinks is right. This is particularly the case when the law of the city contradicts the customs of the people and the traditional laws of the gods b. When Antigone decides to bury Polyneices
Fate vs. Free will (Oedipus)
a.Laius, Jocasta, and Oedipus all work to prevent the prophecies (fate) from coming to pass by using free will to make their own choices, but their efforts to thwart the prophecies are what actually bring the prophecies to completion. b. it is impossible to avoid one's fate, how you respond to your fate is a matter of free will (Oedipus's conclusion after he chose to blind himself)
Sight and Blindness (Oedipus)
a.Oedipus mocks the blindness of Tiresias, who responds by telling Oedipus that he (Oedipus) is blind to the corruption in his own life, and soon will be literally blind, too b.Oedipus is blind to the truth of his prophecy until it Is too late, then literally blind c.He is blind to the truth about his own life. It takes the blind prophet, Tiresias, to point out his ignorance and to plant the first seeds of doubt in Oedipus's mind
IOedipus___himself with the brooches from Jocasta's dress
blinds
what does Oedipus accuse Creon and Tiresias of?
conspiring against his life.
fate 7
corinth brings news that polybus is dead and they want him to be king, oedipus takes this as proof his fate is impossible
Odepius shares Jocasta's disbelief and believes that
dad died naturally?
Tiresias
he blind prophet or seer. He knows that the terrible prophecy of Oedipus has already come true, but doesn't want to say what he knows. Only when Oedipus accuses him of treachery does Tiresias suggest that Oedipus himself is guilty of the murder of King Laius. He leaves Oedipus with a riddle that implies, plainly enough for the audience to understand, that Oedipus has killed his father and married his mother.
Oedipus demands to see the shepard for clarification and recognises that: (quote)
he is my last hope
What happened on his way to Thebes?
he killed the traveler, including Laius
Oedipus believes that Jocasta doesn't want to know the truth because of fear he will be born of low birth (he is surprisingly obtuse): (quote)
my mother may turn out to be a slave
Creon
never wanted to be a king: too much work, already has authority. he is hurt, there is no evidence that he is plotting a consipracy against Oedipus
Oedipus refuses to listen to Creon's arguments and says: (quote)
no I want you dead
Why does Jocasta break up the quarrel between her bother and her husband?
not political, family issue
songs that comment on the action of the play or its characters
odes
Killed his father, married his mother.
oedipus
fate 8
oedipus refuses to return to corinth as he is still scared about sleeping with his mother, merope
fate 4
oedipus tells of how he was called a bastard so he went to the oracle who told him he would kill his father and marry his mother
introduces the main characters in the beginning of the play?
prologue
Thespis
protagonist (the first actor) One character stepped forward from the chorus to narrate or tell the story Symbolically sacrifice the tragic hero rather than a goat to the gods
The gruesome description of him blinding himself, very violent act: (quote)
raising the pins, raking them down his eyes
When he goes to the oracle at Delphi he is told his fate, he then feld and en route "......." where Lauis was killed: (quote)
reached that very spot
What does Ares represent to the Chorus? What various things do they wish for him?
Ares represents the Plague, they ask Zeus to strike him with lightning bolts.
What does Oedipus relate about his past to explain his fears?
A drunken man told him that his parents in Corinth were not really his parents. Although his parents denied this, Oedipus was suspicious and went to the shrine at Delphi. There the god told him that he would murder his father, marry his mother, and have children with her. After hearing the dreadful prophecy, Oedipus fled Corinth to avoid this evil. Before he arrived at Thebes, he did kill men where the three highways came together. At this point, Oedipus fears that one of the men was Laius.
What terrible thing does Oedipus accuse Tiresias of doing?
A plot to murder the king.
What arguments does Creon use to defend himself?
He would not gain anything from plotting against Oedipus
When Creon arrives from Delphi, what does Oedipus insist that he do? What does this insist about his character?
Creon decides to talk about the Oracle in private. Oedipus wants to talk about the issue in public. It illustrates the extent to which he loves his subjects.
Why do the supplicants believe that Oedipus will be able to find a solution to the famine?
He had no human help when he had solved the Riddle of the Sphinx
What does Oedipus mean when he declares himself the "child of chance"? Why is this an example of dramatic irony?
His life was not ruled by cruel fortune but cruel fate.
Why is Oedipus concerned about his daughters futures and not his sons?
His sons are grown
At this point, what appears to be Oedipus' hamartia?
His stubbornness.
Oedipus starts out willing: (quote)
I am ready to help...I'll do anything
Why is Jocasta pleased at the news of Polybus' death?
If Oedipus' father is dead, and Oedipus did not kill him, then the prophesy was false, and seers are discredited.
What action has Oedipus taken to find an answer to the city's problem?
Sent Creon to the Oracle of Delphi.
What is significant about the fact that the first line of the play is a question?
Sets a tone that the play is of questions and answers.
What is the meaning of Oedipus' name? Why is this significant?
Swollen feet, that was his ailment when the messenger took him.
Structurally, why is it appropriate for the Chorus to appear now?
The Chorus first appeared at the introduction of the conflict. Now the action has begun rising toward the climax: Oedipus has ordered the culprit to come forward, and he has cursed the murderer. To mark the beginning of the rising action and to build suspense, Sophocles again has the Chorus interject.
Give details of how the Chorus describes the city to the gods.
The Chorus tells the gods that their crops are not growing, their children are stillborn, and many people are dying. The dead are lying on the ground, and there are few others left to mourn them.
Explain the dramatic irony in Oedipus' interrogation of Creon.
The audience knows Oedipus killed Laius.
What concerns does the Chorus have about the current state of religious belief?
The chorus believes people are losing faith in the gods.
Why does the Chorus appear at this point in the play?
The conflict has been introduced and the plot is in motion.
What is the contrast between Antistrophe 1 and Strophe 2?
The glory and strength of Oedipus is contrasted to his terrible fate. In Antistrophe 1, the Chorus describes Oedipus as the man who "though death sang, stood like a tower/ To make Pale Thebes take heart./Fortress against our sorrow!/ True king, giver of laws,/Majestic Oedipus!" (1142-1147; 1251) In Strophe 2, the Chorus states, "And now, of all men ever known/Most pitiful is this man's story:/ His fortunes are most changed; his state/ Fallen to a low slave's/ Ground under bitter fate." (1150-1154; 1251).
What information does the messenger give Oedipus to put an end to his dread of the Oracle? How does this man know the truth?
The messenger explains that Oedipus was not the natural son of Polybus and Merope. A shepherd found Oedipus, who had been left to die with a skewer that pinned his feet together. This shepherd, one of Laius' men, gave the baby to the messenger, who in turn gave it to the childless Polybus.
What is significant about Jocasta's account of Laius prophesy and death?
The place of Laius' murder—the junction of three roads—sparks Oedipus' interest. Probably he is connecting Laius' murder spot with where he killed the stranger.
Why is the sheperd so reluctant to identify Oedipus as the child he gave to the messenger?
To acknowledge that Oedipus was that child would be to admit that he did not follow Laius' instructions.
Besides exile, what else does Oedipus ask of Creon?
To give Jocasta a proper burial and to take care of his daughters.
How does the messengers information change the central question in the play?
Up until this point the question is "who killed Laius?" now its "who are Oedipus' parents?"
Oedipus starts out concerned: (quote)
Why are you here?
