Essay for Oedipus Rex – Argument Paper
1.
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Choose one of the themes listed below.
State your opinion.
Write a five-paragraph essay that supports your opinion
You must use three examples from the story to defend your choice and sources you find online to
support your argument.
Paragraph 1 = Introduction in 5-7 sentences
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
Introduce the play (be sure to underline or italicize the play)
Introduce your opinion (use the questions below)
Paragraphs 2-4 = your supports in 5-7 sentences each. Each paragraph needs to have an example from
the play and an explanation of how it backs up your opinion.
Paragraph 5= Summary in 5-7 sentences
 Restate your opinion and how you proved it correct.
1.
Is Oedipus Selfless or Self-centered?
Were Oedipus’s arrogance, quickness to anger and his own self-confidence his tragic flaw? To what extent
is Oedipus acting as a savior for the benefit of his people; to what extent is he acting on his own behalf?
Consider his reasons for fleeing Corinth, his accusations against Creon, and his reasons for wanting to talk
to the shepherd. Use three specific examples from the text to prove your point.
2. Is Oedipus a Free Man or a Fool of the Gods?
Are human beings creatures of free will, or are their actions, for good or evil, determined by forces beyond
their control? Irony and coincidence influence our view of Oedipus. Do the gods know what Oedipus will
do in a given situation because they know human nature, or do they actually manipulate events beyond
purely just coincidence? Use three specific examples from the text to prove your point.
FORMAT:
12 point font
Times New Roman
Double-spaced
1” margins
Page Header
(we will go over all of this in class)
ROUGH DRAFT DUE DATE: Tuesday, November 25, 2014 (the day before Thanksgiving break!)
FINAL DRAFT DUE DATE: Friday, December 5, 2014 (the first Friday after Thanksgiving break!)