1. April 26  Turn in Drama Writing Assignment  Discuss Oedipus the King  “Critics on Sophocles” p. 898  Homework:  “More Topics for Writing” #3 p. 905

2. Oedipus Reflections  “Oedipus is punished not for any fault in himself, but for his ignorance. Not knowing his family history, unable to recognize his parents on sight, he is blameless; and in slaying his father and marrying his mother, he behaves as any sensible person might behave in the same circumstances.” Do you agree with this interpretation? Write a ½ page response to turn in.

3. Elements of Classical Tragedy in Oedipus the King  Hamartia/Tragic flaw  Hubris  Peripeteia  Recognition  Catharsis

4. Partner Up!  Find a partner and answer the following 2 questions together on 1 piece of paper.  Consider the character of Iocaste. Is she a “flat” character –a generalized queen figure – or an individual with distinctive traits of personality? Point to speeches or details in the play to back up your opinion.  What is dramatic irony? Besides the example given on page 437, what other instances of dramatic irony do you find in Oedipus the King? What do they contribute to the effectiveness of the play?

5. Advantages / Disadvantages  Violence and bloodshed take place offstage; thus, the suicide of Iocaste is only reported to us. Nor do we witness Oedipus’ removal of his eyes; this horror is only given in the report by the second messenger. Of what advantage or disadvantage to the play is the limitation?  Contribute to the chart on the board.

6. Final thought on the play…  Answer the following question on the same paper as the first question; turn in the paper when done.  Does this play end in total gloom?

7. Critics on Sophocles  Read the critique assigned to you from pages 898-902 and prepare a synopsis to share with the class.