Question 1: Describe the typical characteristics of Greek tragedy and explain how they differ from modern plays.

Answer: Greek tragedies often feature serious themes, noble characters, and explore moral dilemmas. They use chorus commentary, formal language, and are structured in a three or five-act format. Unlike modern plays, they rely heavily on dialogue, spectacle, and often incorporate music and dance. Modern plays may have more varied structures, themes, and include contemporary language and settings.

Question 2: Who was Sophocles, and what is his significance in Greek theatre?

Answer: Sophocles was a renowned ancient Greek playwright, actor, and politician known for his contributions to Greek tragedy. He elevated the art form by introducing a third actor and complex character development. His most famous work is Oedipus Rex, which explores themes of fate and human suffering.

Question 3: Describe the role of the chorus in Greek theatre and how it contributes to the storytelling in Oedipus Rex.

Answer: The chorus in Greek theatre provides background information, reflects the public opinion, and offers moral or philosophical commentary. In Oedipus Rex, the chorus helps set the tone, reacts to the unfolding drama, and guides the audience's emotional response. It often represents the voice of the community and helps bridge scenes.

Question 4: Identify and describe the main themes of Oedipus Rex.

Answer: Main themes include fate versus free will, the search for truth, blindness and insight, and the consequences of human hubris. The play explores how characters' actions are influenced by fate and how the pursuit of truth can lead to tragic outcomes.

Question 5: Perform a short monologue as Oedipus confronting the truth about his identity. Use appropriate drama techniques to express emotion.

Answer: Students should choose a moment where Oedipus discovers his true identity. Use posture, facial expressions, and voice modulation to convey shock, anger, and despair. Maintain eye contact with the audience, and use gestures to emphasize key points. Use vocal dynamics to reflect the emotional intensity of the scene.

Question 6: Draw or describe the typical Greek theatre setup. Include elements such as the orchestra, skene, and theatron.

Answer: Students can draw a simple plan or describe: The Greek theatre had an open-air circular space called the orchestra at the center, where the chorus performed. Behind the orchestra was the skene, a building used as a backdrop and for scene changes. The theatron was the seating area for the audience, built into a hillside for visibility.

Question 7: Explain how the concept of 'dramatic irony' is used in Oedipus Rex, and give an example from the play.

Answer: Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows something the characters do not. In Oedipus Rex, the audience knows that Oedipus has killed his father and married his mother before he discovers it himself. An example is when Oedipus seeks the truth, unaware that he is the source of the tragedy; the audience understands his tragic fate while he remains ignorant.

Question 8: Suggest a modern adaptation of a scene from Oedipus Rex. How would you change the setting or characters to make it relevant today?

Answer: A modern adaptation could set the scene in a contemporary city with characters played by modern actors. For instance, Oedipus could be a detective uncovering a hidden truth about his past. The setting could be a police station or newsroom. Modern costumes, dialogue, and technology like phones or computers can make the story relatable to today's audience while retaining the core themes.

Question 9: Reflect on the moral lessons of Oedipus Rex. How can these lessons be applied to everyday life?

Answer: The play teaches the importance of humility, the dangers of hubris, and the need to seek truth carefully. It warns against overconfidence and the consequences of ignoring warnings. In everyday life, these lessons remind us to stay humble, listen to advice, and face the truth with integrity, even if it is difficult.

Question 10: Create a brief script for a modern scene inspired by Oedipus Rex, focusing on the theme of uncovering a difficult truth. Include stage directions and dialogue.

Answer: Sample script: [Scene: A modern office. Detective Alex confronts the suspect, Jamie. Detective Alex: (firmly) Jamie, I know what you’ve been hiding. It's time to tell the truth. Jamie: (nervously) I... I didn't mean for it to happen. I was just trying to help. Detective Alex: But your actions have consequences, Jamie. Ignoring the truth only makes things worse. [Stage directions: Detective Alex steps closer, voice steady. Jamie looks away, trembling.] This scene mirrors the themes of truth and consequence from Oedipus Rex in a contemporary setting.