Oedipus+Rex

Oedipus Rex **Essay Prompts** 1.    “An individual’s struggle toward understanding and awareness is a traditional subject for the novelist.” In a well organized essay, apply this statement to Oedipus Rex by comparing the tragic hero Oedipus in an early scene and a scene near the end of the play. Describe the techniques or devices Sophocles uses to reveal the new understanding and awareness Oedipus has gained. 2.   “In many plays a character has a misconception of himself or his world.” Destroying or perpetuating this illusion contributes to a central theme of the play. Using the play Oedipus Rex, discuss Oedipus’ illusion and how it differs from reality and discuss how EITHER the perpetuation OR destruction of this illusion develops a theme in the play. 3.   Oedipus is a complex and important protagonist in Sophocles’ play who might—on the basis of the character’s actions alone—be considered evil or immoral. In a well-organized essay, explain both how and why the full presentation of Oedipus’ character makes us react more sympathetically than we otherwise might. 4.   The protagonist Oedipus represents not only himself but Greek culture as a whole. Discuss how examining Oedipus’ experiences, words, choices, concerns and values reflect the ancient Greek way of life.