Question 1: Describe the main characteristics of Greek tragedy and how they are reflected in Sophocles' 'Oedipus Rex'.

Answer: Greek tragedies are serious plays that explore profound themes such as fate, hubris, and moral dilemmas. They typically follow a structured format with a prologue, parodos, episodes, stasimon, and exodus. In 'Oedipus Rex', these characteristics are reflected through the use of chorus commenting on the action, a tragic hero facing inevitable fate, and a focus on moral and philosophical questions about human nature and destiny.

Question 2: Identify and explain three theatrical techniques used in Greek theatre that would be effective when performing a scene from 'Oedipus Rex'.

Answer: 1. Chorus: Used to comment on the action and provide background, creating a collective voice that guides audience understanding. 2. Masks: Actors wore masks to portray different characters and express emotions clearly, which would be essential in conveying the tragic tone. 3. Minimal Set: Greek theatres used simple, symbolic settings, relying on dialogue and movement. When performing, focus on expressive gestures and vocal tone to depict emotion.

Question 3: Choose a pivotal moment from 'Oedipus Rex' and describe how you would stage it, including character movement, tone of voice, and use of space.

Answer: A pivotal moment is when Oedipus realizes the truth about his identity. To stage this, I would have Oedipus move slowly and with anguish towards the center of the stage, with a tense, rising tone of voice to show his distress. The chorus could stand to the side, reacting with shock. Lighting could be dimmed to enhance the dramatic revelation, and gestures like clutching the head could emphasize his despair.

Question 4: Analyze the role of the Chorus in 'Oedipus Rex'. How does it influence the audience’s understanding of the plot and themes?

Answer: The Chorus in 'Oedipus Rex' functions as a moral and philosophical voice, reflecting the public’s opinion and providing insight into the themes of fate, guilt, and justice. It helps guide the audience’s emotional response and offers commentary that deepens understanding of the tragic events, often foreshadowing or reacting to key moments.

Question 5: In your own words, explain what is meant by 'dramatic irony' and how it is used in 'Oedipus Rex'.

Answer: Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows important information that the characters do not. In 'Oedipus Rex', the audience knows from the beginning that Oedipus is the murderer he seeks, creating tension as Oedipus himself remains unaware until later. This enhances the tragedy because we see his suffering as he unknowingly fulfills the prophecy.

Question 6: Perform a short improvisation: Act out a scene where Oedipus confronts Tiresias, the blind prophet. Focus on tone, gesture, and diction.

Answer: In this improvisation, Oedipus should appear assertive but anxious, with deliberate gestures pointing or leaning forward to show confrontation. Tiresias should speak with calm authority, using deliberate and measured diction, perhaps with a tone of frustration or warning. Use facial expressions and body language to show tension, and consider the emotional stakes of the scene.

Question 7: Draw or describe a simple set design suitable for a Greek theatre performance of 'Oedipus Rex'. Include key elements to help establish the scene.

Answer: Students should describe or draw a raised circular acting space (or a simple stage with a central area), with a backdrop resembling ancient Greek architecture, such as columns or a temple façade. The set could include minimal props, focusing on using costumes and masks to distinguish characters. The space should be open to facilitate movement and chorus positioning.

Question 8: Reflect on how the themes of fate and free will are explored in 'Oedipus Rex'. How can these themes be demonstrated through acting choices?

Answer: 'Oedipus Rex' explores whether our lives are controlled by fate or our own choices. An actor can demonstrate this by portraying Oedipus’s internal conflict—using contrasting body language and vocal tone when showing determination versus helplessness. For example, Oedipus’s defiance in seeking the truth reflects free will, while moments of despair highlight the power of fate. Emphasizing these contrasting elements can help communicate the themes to the audience.

Question 9: Write a brief critique of how effective the ending of 'Oedipus Rex' is in delivering its moral message. Support your answer with reasons.

Answer: The ending of 'Oedipus Rex' is highly effective because it delivers a powerful moral about the consequences of hubris and the limits of human knowledge. The tragic realization and Oedipus’s self-blinding evoke strong emotional reactions, emphasizing the themes of guilt and destiny. The use of dramatic irony and the final chorus reinforces the moral lesson that humans are often powerless against their fate, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.