Jason and the Argonauts
Why was Jason in search of the Golden Fleece?
King Pelias, Jason's uncle, promised him the throne if he could steal the Golden Fleece.
Why is Medea angry at Jason?
He decides to marry Creusa, the princess of Corinth.
What does Medea's chariot symbolize?
Divine power
Which element of tragedy requires Medea to follow a believable chain of causes and effects?
Plot
Why does Media help Jason?
She fell in love with him
What does Medea ask Creon for when he exiles her?
One more day to prepare
Why does the chorus disapprove of Medea's method of vengeance?
They believe killing one's children is a sin regardless of circumstance. They believe in love, only if it is accompanied by wisdom.
Which element of tragedy are Medea's ideas, reasoning, and decision-making skills part of?
Thought
What does Medea do to stop King Aeetes from pursuing Jason after he steals the fleece?
She kills her brother, as Aeetes would have to spend time mourning his death
What does Medea use to kill Creusa?
A poisoned dress and an enchanted circlet
What do the poisoned gifts symbolize?
Corruption and ruin in the guise of harmlessness and beauty
Which element of tragedy encompasses Medea's intelligence, cunning, and pride?
Character
Why is Jason exiled from Iolcus after returning with the fleece?
Medea tricks King Pelias's daughters into killing him so Jason can have his throne back
Why does Medea speak to King Aegeas before poisoning Princess Creusa?
To ensure she has a place to go after fleeing from Corinth.
Why might the chorus's opinion of Medea's situation be a controversial topic in Ancient Greece?
The women's sympathy challenges Greek social expectations of an obedient and submissive wife
Based on Medea, why might Euripides have been seen as progressive?
He explored themes relating to women's intelligence and the struggle of foreigners
What are the challenges that King Aeetes proposes to Jason in exchange for the Golden Fleece?
1. Plow a field with fire breathing bulls
2. Plant the Ismenian Dragon's teeth into the field and kill the Spartoi that grow out of them
3. Steel the fleece from the dragon which guarded it
What excuse does Jason have for marrying Creusa?
Social and financial stability for him, Medea, and their children
In what ways does Medea include themes related to society's acceptance of the foreign?
Medea is shunned by many in society because she is from Colchis and is a sorceress
Based on Medea, what can be inferred about Euripides's view on women's societal role?
Euripides recognises and highlights women's intelligence and strength of will