Oedipus Questions from class

Practice SPA question from class

Oedipus is blind and the story is over ....

Discussion
1. Why does the Herdsman want to protect the truth? Is it for selfish or selfless reasons? Look closely at the language and tone created in his short lines.
2.  Look at the chorus' speech on p. 64-65 (1188-1223). Does the chorus show pity or sympathy or empathy for Oedipus? Why or why not? What does this tell us about how we the audience are supposed to think about him.
3. Review second messenger speech (1238-1297)
4. Looking at the last ten pages of the text (specifically Oedipus' lines), answer the following questions: how does Oedipus show remorse for his actions? How does he take ownership of his exile?
5. What is the closing tone of the play? What are we to take away?


Debate for next class

Oedipus 47-59 ... the drama continues!

Today we're doing to practice some fast analytical thinking and writing. We're going to write, discuss, write, discuss, write, discuss and be done. Best day of your life. Right here!

Each writing/discussion unit will be divided into 25 minutes. You will have 15 minutes to write alone and 10 minutes to discuss with your group.

B Block Groups
Baylor/Francesca/Julian
Isaiah/Larkin/Jack
Hugo/Ben/Phyllis
William/Katie/Alex
Jillian/Adriana/Asher
Ian/Cate/Chloe

C Block Groups
Pei Ja/Maddy/Samuel
Emma/Sarah/Will R
Lauren/Will O/Bay
Gabe/Alex/Hailey
Kraz/Caroline/Renee
Claire/Mac/Rachel

1. pg. 48, lines 884-896
What complex moral issue is the chorus struggling with and how does it relate to the major action of the play?

2. pgs. 56-57, lines 1056-1073
Is Jocasta selfish? Why or why not?

3. pg. 58, lines 1077-1086
Does Oedipus demonstrate hubris or ignorance? Support your with the text.