Main Character Energy
This character represents truth.
Teiresias
In the beginning of Part 1, Thebans were concerned about this problem.
A plague was killing their crops, livestock, and citizens.
We see Oedipus in different ways across part one. Describe Oedipus as a leader at the beginning of the play.
Answers may vary, but could include that Oedipus is likeable, self-assured, decisive, and dedicated to the community of Thebes.
Thebes
The setting of the play. It is the city where the story takes place.
This character possesses clarity, truth, and shares wisdom
Teiresias
Creon is being accused of conspiring against Oedipus. What logic does Creon suggest proves him innocent?
He enjoys living like a king, but does not want the responsibility. Creon's life is great because Oedipus carries the burden of responsibility.
Explain how the following conversation is an example of ALLUSION:
Oedipus: "You only know how to speak in the darkness of riddles."
Teiresias: "I thought you were the man who could unlock a riddle's secret."
Teiresias is alluding to how Oedipus saved the city from the Sphinx.
Edict
a formal decree
The chorus begins to soften on their opinion of Oedipus' guilt when this character speaks reasonably about accusations against him.
Creon
Explain how Jocasta is certain that Oedipus is not her son.
To her knowledge, her son was killed as an infant and never grew into an adult.
What specific clarity does the oracle give to Creon regarding how to help the people of Thebes.
Thebes is harboring the murderer of King Laius and that person must be removed from the kingdom.
Archetype
Recurring character types with shared traits that reflect universal human behaviors and experiences. (hero, thinker, jester, etc...)
Explain how the Oracle at Delphi represents the concept of fate vs. free will.
The Oracle recites the fate of a character, but the characters all have free-will in how they live their lives. Characters can freely choose how to respond to their fate.
How does Oedipus' promise to avenge the death of Laius add the element of foreshadowing to the plot?
Answers may vary, but could include that this action introduces Oedipus' hamartia into the story. These arrogant words will lead to his downfall.
What detail of Jocasta's story help Oedipus to "see" his possible connection to Laius's death?
Laius was killed where three roads meet.
Allusion
an indirect reference to a person, event, or literary work that is known or previously understood by the reader.
This character's 'hamartia' is stubbornness, pride, and lack of good judgement.
Oedipus
When being questioned by Oedipus about the murder of Laius, what does Teiresias mean when he says, “Alas! It is a miserable thing to be wise when wisdom brings no reward"?
Answers may vary. Ms. Imbs has the final say. A response could be that Teiresias believes that his ability to identify the murderer may only cause more problems.
Why does Oedipus accuse Tiresias and Creon of conspiring against him?
Answers may vary, but could include that Oedipus is blind to his own ability to commit the crime. He believes he is a great leader who isn't capable of fulfilling the prophecy.
Hamartia
a fatal flaw or crucial error that leads to the downfall of a tragic hero.