This study guide was prepared by the students of John Marshall
High School’s Gifted, Highly Gifted, High Ability Magnet during
the fall of 2003 and is part of an ongoing effort; comments,
questions, or suggestions are welcome at Online Literature
Study, JMHS Magnet, Silverlake, California, 90027.
Oedipus Rex, Part One
Cell 1
Why are you all sad?
I assure you that I can help.
Quote: "My children, latest born to Cadmus old,
Why sit ye here as suppliants, in your hands
Branches of olive filleted with wool?
What means this reek of incense everywhere,
And everywhere laments and litanies?
Children, it were not meet that I should learn
From others, and am hither come, myself,
I Oedipus, your world-renowned king.
Ho! aged sire, whose venerable locks
Proclaim thee spokesman of this company,
Explain your mood and purport. Is it dread
Of ill that moves you or a boon ye crave?
My zeal in your behalf ye cannot doubt;
Ruthless indeed were I and obdurate
If such petitioners as you I spurned."
Summary: Oedipus asks the people why they are sad, and assures
the people that he will help them in any way to make their sadness go
away.
Reading Comprehension: What does Oedipus assure the people he
will do for them?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word obdurate most nearly
means
a) anxiously awaiting
b) smilingly pushy
c) glowingly cheerful
d) stubbornly sinful
Discussion: Will Oedipus keep his word to help the people?
Cell 2
The people are suffering, Oedipus!!
Quote: "Yea, Oedipus, my sovereign lord and king,
Thou seest how both extremes of age besiege
Thy palace altars--fledglings hardly winged,
and greybeards bowed with years; priests, as am I
of Zeus, and these the flower of our youth.
Meanwhile, the common folk, with wreathed boughs
Crowd our two market-places, or before
Both shrines of Pallas congregate, or where
Ismenus gives his oracles by fire.
For, as thou seest thyself, our ship of State,
Sore buffeted, can no more lift her head,
Foundered beneath a weltering surge of blood.
A blight is on our harvest in the ear,
A blight upon the grazing flocks and herds,
A blight on wives in travail; and withal
Armed with his blazing torch the God of Plague
Hath swooped upon our city emptying
The house of Cadmus, and the murky realm
Of Pluto is full fed with groans and tears."
Summary: The Priest tells Oedipus about the people’s suffering and
their sadness. He also asks Oedipus to rescue Thebes from the plague.
Reading Comprehension: What does the Priest ask Oedipus to save
him and the people from?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word buffeted most nearly
means:
a) strangely wrong
b) strongly forced
c) happily gleeful
d) stupidly embarrassed
Discussion Question: Will the plague affect all of the people by the
time Oedipus decides to help them?
Cell 3
I can hear Creon coming.
Quote: " Thus pondering one clue of hope I caught,
And tracked it up; I have sent Menoeceus' son,
Creon, my consort's brother, to inquire
Of Pythian Phoebus at his Delphic shrine,
How I might save the State by act or word.
And now I reckon up the tale of days
Since he set forth, and marvel how he fares.
'Tis strange, this endless tarrying, passing strange.
But when he comes, then I were base indeed,
If I perform not all the god declares.
Summary: Oedipus tells the Priest that everything will be fine, and
that he had already sent his brother-in-law Creon to Delphi to see the
oracle and ask what caused the plague, and how to stop it. The Priest
then tells Oedipus that he had just sent Creon just in time because
they can hear him coming back with the news.
Reading Comprehension: How is Oedipus and Creon related?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word reckon most closely means
a) to hate
b) to forget
c) to think
d) to love
Discussion: Will Creon come back with good or bad news?
Cell 4
The gods say he should suffer.
Quote: CREON
"Let me report then all the god declared.
King Phoebus bids us straitly extirpate
A fell pollution that infests the land,
And no more harbor an inveterate sore."
OEDIPUS
"What expiation means he? What's amiss?"
CREON
"Banishment, or the shedding blood for blood.
This stain of blood makes shipwreck of our state"
Summary: When Creon comes back from seeing the oracle, he tells
Oedipus that the gods are angry with Thebes for killing Laius; the
former king of Thebes. Also, since the murderer is still at large, he
should suffer for killing the former king.
Reading Comprehension: Who is Lauis?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word extirpate most closely
means
a) to bury
b) to abolish
c) to build
d) to upright
Discussion: Do you think that the people know who killed their former
king?
Cell 5
He was killed during a
journey
Quote: OEDIPUS
"And what was that? One clue might lead us far,
With but a spark of hope to guide our quest."
CREON
"Robbers, he told us, not one bandit but
A troop of knaves, attacked and murdered him."
Summary: When Oedipus asks the people about their former ruler's
death, they tell him that he was killed by a group of robbers when he
was on a journey.
Reading Comprehension: Who killed Lauis from the people's
perspective?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word knave most closely means
a) an odd person
b) an unfairly loathed person
c) a funny person
d) a cruelly crafty person
Discussion: Do you think that the murderer will admit to the people
the truth about Laius, or keep it to himself?
Cell 6
GO FIND THE murderer!!
Quote: "Well, _I_ will start afresh and once again
Make dark things clear. Right worthy the concern
Of Phoebus, worthy thine too, for the dead;
I also, as is meet, will lend my aid
To avenge this wrong to Thebes and to the god.
Not for some far-off kinsman, but myself,
Shall I expel this poison in the blood;
For whoso slew that king might have a mind
To strike me too with his assassin hand.
Therefore in righting him I serve myself.
Up, children, haste ye, quit these altar stairs,
Take hence your suppliant wands, go summon hither
The Theban commons. With the god's good help
Success is sure; 'tis ruin if we fail."
Summary: Oedipus says that he is going to scour his kingdom and
look for the murderer to prosecute him, as well as save himself from
future danger. He also hopes to save his land. Then, both Creon and
Oedipus leave.
Reading Comprehension: What is one reason why Oedipus is
scouring his kingdom?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word kinsman most closely
means
a) a friend
b) a relative
c) a teacher
d) a gardener
Discussion: Is it a good idea for Oedipus to look for Laius’ killer?
Why?
Cell 7
Let’s go, children.
Quote: "Come, children, let us hence; these gracious words
Forestall the very purpose of our suit.
And may the god who sent this oracle
Save us withal and rid us of this pest."
Summary: The Priest tells the children around him that it is time to
go, and tells them that they hope that the oracle had given Oedipus
good news, and save them from the "pest".
Reading Comprehension: What does the Priest hope for?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word forestall most closely
means
a) to leave
b) to be bored
c) to forbid
d) to anticipate
Discussion: How will their views change in the future if Oedipus finds
the killer and prosecutes him?
PÁRADOS – Strophe 1>> A Melodic Question - Cell #8
Quote:
Chorus (Strophe) : “What dost thou bring me? My soul is racked and
shivers with fear.. Hast thou some pain unknown before, .. Offspring
of golden Hope, thou voice immortal, O tell me.”
Summary:
The choir is asking Apollo about the future of Thebes, then mentions
that they remember that in the past he has sent doom. Now they think
that doom will be sent again (being paranoid and all). Then they
conclude the theory with again, asking, for the reading of Thebes.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Why does the choir think that Apollo will send doom to the city?
Vocabulary Question:
“Sweet-voiced daughter of Zeus from thy gold-paved Pythian shrine
Wafted to Thebes divine,”
What does “Wafted” mean?
a) touched
b) heard
c) conveyed
d) loved
Discussion Question:
What do you think that Apollo will decide for the city of Thebes?
PÁRADOS – Antistrophe 1 >> Cell #9
Quote:
Chorus (Antistrophe): “First on Athene I call;… Artemis, Lady of
Thebes,… Lord of the death-winged dart! Your threefold aid I crave…be
near us now and defend us!”
Summary:
The choir prays to Athena, Artemis, and Apollo to help them in their
time of grief, as they had in the past.
Reading Comprehension Question:
To which three gods and goddesses does the choir pray?
Vocabulary Question:
“Lord of the death-winged dart!
Your threefold aid I crave”
In the quote above, what does dart most nearly mean?
a) cart
b) arrow
c) bird
d) Hermes
Discussion Question:
Do you think any of the gods or goddesses mentioned by the choir will
help the city?
PÁRADOS – Strophe 2 >> Cell #10
Quote:
Chorus (Strophe): “Ah me, what countless woes are mine!
All our host is in decline;
Weaponless my spirit lies.
…
Life on life downstriken goes,
…
To the westering shores of Night.”
Summary:
The choir sings about how their suffering has no end; everybody has
given up on their fight against death. Nobody cares anymore about
anything, until the end of day, everyday.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Who doesn’t care about their life anymore in Thebes?
Vocabulary Question:
“Women wail in barren throes;”
What does throes mean?
a)
b)
c)
d)
dislikes
pains
hardships
longings
Discussion Question:
Do you think the idea of “everybody dying and not caring” is an
exaggeration?
PÁRODOS – Antistrophe 2 >> Cell #11
Quote:
Chorus (Antistrophe): “Wasted thus by death on death
All our city perisheth.
…
Wailing on the altar stair
Wives and grandams rend the air-…
Golden child of Zeus, O hear”
Summary:
The choir sings that the plague is endless, and nobody is helping but
the old ladies who cry for it.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What do the old ladies cry for help about?
Vocabulary Question:
“Blent with prayers and litanies.”
What does litanies mean?
a) priests
b) hopes
c) recited prayers
d) sacrifices
Discussion Question:
How much longer would you guess that the plague would last?
PÁRODOS – Strophe 3 >> Cell #12
Quote:
Chorus (Strophe): “And grant that Ares whose hot breath I feel,
Though without targe or steel
He stalks, whose voice is as the battle shout,
…
For what night leaves undone,
Smit by the morrow's sun
…
Father Zeus, whose hand
Doth wield the lightning brand,
Slay him beneath thy levin bold, we pray,
Slay him, O slay!”
Summary:
The choir sings that they have no defense to the plague but their cries,
and that the night only spares the horrors of the day. The choir then
asks Zeus to kill the enemy.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Who does the choir want Zeus to kill?
Vocabulary Question:
“Slay him beneath thy levin bold,”
What does levin mean?
a) lightning
b) feet
c) clouds
d) body
Discussion Question:
Why do you think that the “horrors” of the plague are only horrors
during the day?
PÁRODOS – Antistrophe 3 >> Cell #13
Quote:
Chorus (Antistrophe): “Lycean King,
From that taut bow's gold string,
Might fly abroad, the champions of our rights;
…
Of Artemis,
…
Bacchus to whom thy Maenads Evoe shout;
…
Come with thy bright torch, rout,
Blithe god whom we adore,
The god whom gods abhor.”
Summary:
The choir asks Apollo, Artemis, and Bacchus to help them (the city) in
their time of need by stopping the hate and spreading the joy.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Which three gods and goddesses did the choir pray to?
Vocabulary Question:
“Of Artemis, wherewith the huntress sweeps
Across the Lycian steeps.
Thee too I call with golden-snooded hair,”
What does snooded mean?
a) burned
b) striped
c) dyed
d) banded
Discussion Question:
Do you think Apollo will grant their wish?
SCENE 1 >> Oedipus’ Analysis and Announcement – Cell #14
Quote:
Oedipus: “but would ye hear my words
And heed them…
Mind you, I speak as one who comes a stranger…
Thebans, if any knows the man by whom
Laius, son of Labdacus, was slain,
I summon him to make clean shrift to me.…
Confessing he shall 'scape the capital charge;
For the worst penalty that shall befall him
Is banishment--unscathed he shall depart.…
On the assassin whosoe'er he be.
Let no man in this land, whereof I hold
The sovereign rule, harbor or speak to him;…
Thus as their champion I maintain the cause
Both of the god and of the murdered King.…
if with my privity
He gain admittance to my hearth, I pray
The curse I laid on others fall on me.…
It were a scandal ye should leave unpurged
The murder of a great man and your king,.…
therefore I
His blood-avenger will maintain his cause
As though he were my sire,
…
May Justice, our ally, and all the gods
Be gracious and attend you evermore.”
Summary:
Oedipus basically says that he’s a stranger that’s faithful to the rule of
the past (Laius).
He also talks about how nobody can talk or help him, and that
anybody who knows who the murderer is should come forth and tell
him.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Who does Oedipus says he’s faithful to?
Vocabulary Question:
“Thebans, if any knows the man by whom
Laius, son of Labdacus, was slain,
I summon him to make clean shrift to me.”
What does shrift mean?
a) showers
b) confession
c) pots
d) lies
Discussion Question:
Do you think anybody in Thebes knows who the murderer (of Laius)
is?
SCENE 1 >> Cell #15
Quote:
Chorus: “With our lord Phoebus, 'tis our prophet, lord
Teiresias; he of all men best might guide
A searcher of this matter to the light.”
Oedipus: “for twice
At Creon's instance have I sent to fetch him,”
Chorus: “Well, if he knows what fear is, he will quail
And flee before the terror of thy curse.”
Oedipus: “Words scare not him who blenches not at deeds.”
Summary:
Chorus (the choir) asks why Teiresias has not been asked to help, and
Oedipus replies that he already has asked twice, and an answer should
be here by now. Then Chorus asks why does the murderer not just
reveal himself because of Oedipus’ curse, and Oedipus replies that
only someone who dares to conduct that act would not fear a curse.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What are the two things Chorus asks Oedipus?
Vocabulary Question:
“Words scare not him who blenches not at deeds.”
What does blenches mean?
a) flinches
b) does
c) governs
d) dies
Discussion Question:
Do you think that Chorus will be of much influence to the story later
on?
SCENE 1 >> Cell #16
Quote:
Chorus: “But here is one to arraign him. Lo, at length
They bring the god-inspired seer in”
Oedipus: “Teiresias, seer who comprehendest all,
…
Thou knowest, though thy blinded eyes see naught,
What plague infects our city; and we turn
To thee,
…
O save thyself, thy country, and thy king,
Save all from this defilement of blood shed.
On thee we rest.”
Summary:
Chorus announces Teiresias’ arrival just as he was talking about him.
Then Oedipus asks Teiresias to help him and Thebes.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Who has just arrived into the palace?
Vocabulary Question:
“To thee, O seer, our one defense and shield.
The purport of the answer that the God
Returned to us who sought his oracle,”
What does “purport” mean?
a) meaning
b) reality
c) holding
d) porpoise
Discussion Question:
Do you think that Teiresias will help?
Oedipus Rex Part 1
Cell Number 1
Quote:
“My zeal in your behalf ye cannot doubt;
Ruthless indeed were I and obdurate
If such petitioners as you I spurned.” (Oedipus)
Summary: Oedipus speaks first in this play. He tells the people of
Thebes to trust him because he is not cruel and rigid.
Reading Comprehension: Why might the petitioners fear the king?
Vocabulary Question: “Ruthless indeed were I and obdurate if such
petitioners as you I spurned.”
In the quote above, the word “obdurate” most closely means:
a) Springy
b) Rigid
c) Flexible
d) Slothful
Discussion Question: Compare this to another story of shy
petitioners.
Oedipus Rex Part 1
Cell Number 2
Quote:
“A blight is on our harvest in the ear,
A blight upon the grazing flocks and herds,
A blight on wives in travail; and withal
Armed with his blazing torch the God of Plague
Hath swooped upon our city emptying
The house of Cadmus, and the murky realm
Of Pluto is full fed with groans and tears.” (Priest)
Summary: There’s a plague in Thebes. After so many deaths, the
people are asking Oedipus for help.
Reading Comprehension: Why are people dying?
Vocabulary Question: “…The house of Cadmus, and the murky
realm of Pluto is full fed with groan and tears.”
In the quote above, the word “murky” most closely means:
a) Community
b) Dark
c) Bright
d) Humongous
Discussion Question: Do you believe that a death of a king can lead
to a plague?
Oedipus Rex Part 1
Cell Number 3
Quote:
“Thus pondering one clue of hope I caught,
And tracked it up; I have sent Menoeceus' son,
Creon, my consort's brother, to inquire
Of Pythian Phoebus at his Delphic shrine,
How I might save the State by act or word.” (Oedipus)
Summary: Oedipus sends his brother-in-law, Creon, to Delphi,
Apollo’s place of revelation. Oedipus asks Creon to find out whatever
he can to stop the plague.
Reading Comprehension: Where is Creon being sent, and by whom?
Vocabulary Question: “I have sent Menoeceus’ son, Creon, my
consort’s brother, to inquire of Pythian Phoebus at his Delphic shrine,
how I might save the State by act or word.”
In the quote above, the word “inquire” most closely means:
a) Ask
b) Operate
c) Shock
d) Admire
Discussion Question: Do you think Creon will come back with an
answer? If so, what do you think the solution is?
Oedipus Rex Part 1
Cell Number 4
Quote:
CREON
Before thou didst assume the helm of State,
The sovereign of this land was Laius.
OEDIPUS
I heard as much, but never saw the man.
CREON
He fell; and now the god's command is plain:
Punish his takers-off, whoe'er they be.
Summary: Creon tells Oedipus and the people of Thebes that the
previous ruler was Laius. The Gods’ command for Oedipus is to punish
the murderers who ended Laius’ life.
Reading Comprehension: What is the Gods’ command?
Vocabulary Question: “Before thou didst assume the helm of State,
the sovereign of this land was Laius.”
In the quote above, the word “assume” most closely means:
a) Guess
b) Abandon
c) Want
d) Undertake
Discussion Question: Is it surprising that Oedipus never met Laius?
After all, European rulers used to marry their own family members.
Oedipus Rex Part 1
Cell Number 5
Quote:
OEDIPUS
Where are they? Where in the wide world to find
The far, faint traces of a bygone crime?
CREON
In this land, said the god; "who seeks shall find;
Who sits with folded hands or sleeps is blind."
OEDIPUS
Was he within his palace, or afield,
Or traveling, when Laius met his fate?
CREON
Abroad; he started, so he told us, bound
For Delphi, but he never thence returned.
Summary: Creon tells Oedipus that Laius was on his way to Delphi,
but was trapped by thieves. Lauis and his followers were robbed there
and then. The Gods tell Creon that the murderer(s) is/are in Thebes.
The way to be rid of the plague is to find him, and punish him.
Reading Comprehension: What’s the solution to get rid of the
plague?
Vocabulary Question: “…Where in the wide world to find the far,
faint traces of a bygone crime?”
In the quote above, the word “bygone” most closely means:
a) Past
b) Terrible
c) Horrifying
d) Present
Discussion Question: Is it possible for Oedipus, a ruler, to be able to
find a murderer? How does this situation relate to President George W.
Bush?
Oedipus Rex Part 1
Cell Number 6
Quote: “I also, as is meet, will lend my aid To avenge this wrong to
Thebes and to the god. Not for some far-off kinsman, but myself, Shall
I expel this poison in the blood;”
Summary: Oedipus says that he will solve the mystery of Laius’
murder. The chorus comes in and calls upon Apollo, Athena and
Artemis. Creon, Oedipus’ brother-in-law, tells Oedipus that the gods
are mad at Thebes for the death of Laius.
Reading Comprehension Question: Which gods did the Chorus call?
Vocabulary Question: “And may the god who sent this oracle save
us withal and rid us of this pest.”
a) Seer
b) Prophecy
c) Mystery
d) Divine
Discussion Question: If you wanted to solve something, who would
you call? Why?
Oedipus Rex Part 1
Cell Number 7
Quote: “Thebans, if any knows the man by whom Laius, son of
Labdacus, was slain, I summon him to make clean shrift to me.”
Summary: Oedipus tells the Chorus that he will solve the murder case
and avenge Laius.
Reading Comprehension Question: Who will solve the murder
mystery?
Vocabulary Question: “Ye pray; 'tis well, but would ye hear my
words and heed them and apply the remedy, ye might perchance find
comfort and relief.”
a) Purchase
b) Perhaps
c) Try
d) Happily
Discussion Question: Do you think that Oedipus will solve the
problem? Why?
Oedipus Rex Part 1
Cell Number 8
Quote: “For the worst penalty that shall befall him Is banishment-unscathed he shall depart.”
Summary: Oedipus asks the Thebans if they know who murdered
Laius. He says that the one that tells him who murdered Laius will be
rewarded and the murderer will have no harsher punishment than
exile.
Reading Comprehension Question: Who is Oedipus going to put
into exile?
Vocabulary Question: “Let him who knows speak out, and he shall
have Due recompense from me and thanks to boot.”
a) reward
b) Kick out
c) Honor
d) Money
Discussion Question: If you were Oedipus how would you punish the
murderer?
Oedipus Rex Part 1
Cell Number 9
Quote: “But if ye still keep silence, if through fear for self or friends ye
disregard my hest, Hear what I then resolve; I lay my ban on the
assassin whosoe'er he be.”
Summary: No one responds to Oedipus, so he gets really mad. He
also said that if it was one of his family members that murdered Laius,
they will suffer the same fate.
Reading Comprehension Question: What will happen if Oedipus
finds out that the person that killed Laius was a guest of his or family
member?
Vocabulary Question: “Let no man in this land, whereof I hold the
sovereign rule, harbor or speak to him;”
a) foreign
b) intimate
c) favored
d) royal
Discussion Question: What if you found out that one of your family
members was a murderer?
Oedipus Rex Part 1
Cell Number 10
Quote: “My liege, if any man sees eye to eye With our lord Phoebus,
'tis our prophet, lord Teiresias; he of all men best might guide A
searcher of this matter to the light.”
Summary: Oedipus lectures the Thebans for letting the murder case
go on for so long. The leader of the Chorus (Choragus) tells Oedipus to
go get Teiresias, an oracle, to help him solve the problem. Oedipus
tells Choragus that he has already sent someone to get him. Teiresias
arrives led by a boy.
Reading Comprehension Question: Who is a great prophet?
Vocabulary Question: “Here too my zeal has nothing lagged, for
twice At Creon's instance have I sent to fetch him, And long I marvel
why he is not here.”
a) Procrastination
b) peer pressure
c) determination
d) low self-esteem
Discussion Question: How do you think Teiresias will solve the
problem?
CELL #1
- Quote: Oedipus – Teiresias, seer who comprehendest all, Lore of
the wise and hidden mysteries, High things of heaven and low
things of the earth, thou knowest, though thy blinded eyes see
naught, what plague infects our city; and we turn to thee, O
seer, our one defense and shield. The purport of the answer that
the God returned to us who sought his oracle, the messengers
have doubtless told thee—how one course alone could rid us of
the pest, to find the murderers of Laius, and slay them or expel
them from the land. Therefore begrudging neither augury nor
other divination that is thine, o save thyself, thy country, and
thy king, save all from this defilement of blood shed. On thee we
rest. This is man’s highest end, to others’ service all his powers
to lend.
- Summary: Oedipus welcomes Teiresias for coming. He tells
Teiresias that the city is in trouble so they turn to Teiresias for
help. The people would like to know who killed Laius.
- Comprehension Question: Who would like to know who killed
Laius?
Vocabulary Question: In the quote above, the word Divination
most nearly means…
- Nor other ________ that is thine, O save thyself…
- A) Augury
B) Prediction
- C) Divination
D) Palmistry
-
Discussion Question: How do you think the people will react to
the murder situation?
CELL #2
- Quote: Oedipus – What ails thee? Why this melancholy mood?
o Teiresias – Let me go home; prevent me not; ‘twere best
that thou shouldst bear thy burden and I mine
- Summary: Oedipus realizes that something is wrong and asks
Teiresias why so down? Teiresias replies with that he wishes to
go home and prefer not telling what he knows.
- Comprehension Question: Who gets the feeling that something is
wrong?
- Vocabulary Question: … best that thou shouldst bear thy ______
and I mine
- A) Load
B) Burden
- C) Stuff
D) Bag
- What does the term Burden mean?
-
Discussion Question: Do you think that Teresias will end up
telling Oedipus what is going on?
CELL #3
- Quote: Teiresias – Aye, for ye all are witless, but my voice will
ne’er reveal my miseries—or thine.
o Oedipus – What then, thou knoest, and yet willst not
speak! Wouldst thou betray us and destroy the State?
- Summary: Teiresias says everyone is dumb and he will not tell
his miseries or Oedipus’. Oedipus becomes angry and answers
with you know but you won’t say anything. Would you betray the
people and the state?
- Comprehension Question: What does Teiresias say about
everyone?
- Vocabulary Question: Aye, for ye all are _______, but my
voice….
- A) Headless
B) Ignorant
- C) Idiotic
D) Witless
- What does the term Witless mean?
- Discussion Question: Do you think Oedipus will beat up Teiresias
for an answer?
CELL #4
- Quote: Oedipus – Monster! Thy silence would incense a flint. Will
nothing loose thy tongue? Can nothing melt thee, or shake thy
dogged taciturnity?
o Teiresias – Thou blam’st my mood and seest not thine own
wherewith thou art mated; no, thou taxest me.
- Summary: Teiresias still doesn’t answer but Oedipus tries to get
him to answer, Teiresias states, “Why do you blame my mood
when you don’t realize your own?”
- Comprehension Question: What did Teiresias tell Oedipus?
- Vocabulary Question: … or shake thy dogged _______?
- A) Quiet
B) Hair
- C) Silence
D) Taciturnity
- What does the word Taciturnity mean?
- Discussion Question: Why do you think Teiresias doesn’t want to
tell anyone of his knowledge?
CELL #5
- Quote: Teiresias – I have no more to say; storm as thou willst,
and give the rein to all thy pent-up rage.
o Oedipus – Yea, I am wroth, and will not stint my words,
but speak my whole mind. Thou methinks thou art he, who
planned the crime, aye, and performed it too, all save the
assassination; and if thou hadst not been blind, I had been
sworn to boot that thou alone didst do the bloody deed.
- Summary: Teiresias will say nothing more and doesn’t care if
Oedipus rages on. Then Oedipus accuses Teiresias of planning
then committing the crime.
- Comprehension Question: Who rages about Teiresias’ keeping
his mouth shut?
- Vocabulary Question: … and will not _____ my words, but speak
my whole mind…
- A) Restriction
B) Stint
- C) Restraint
D) Stink
- What does the word Stint mean?
- Discussion Question: What do you think Oedipus is talking
about?
CELL #6
- Quote: Teiresias – Is it so? Then I charge thee to abide by thine
own proclamation; from this day speak not to these for me.
Thou art the man, thou the accursed polluter of this land.
o Oedipus – Vile slanderer, thou blurtest forth these taunts,
and think’st forsooth as seer to go scot free.
o Teiresias – Yea, I am free, strong in the strength of truth.
- Summary: Teiresias replies “Really? Then never speak to me
again for you are the polluter of the land.” Oedipus is enraged
and calls Teiresias a vile slanderer.
- Comprehension Question: What did Oedipus label Teiresias?
- Vocabulary Question: _________, thou blurtest forth these
taunts…
- A) Enemy
B) Slanderer
- C) Moron
D) Critic
- What do you think the term Slanderer means?
- Discussion Question: Do you think that Oedipus is going to
punch Teiresias until he give him an answer?
CELL #7
- Quote: Oedipus – I but half caught thy meaning; say it again
o Teiresias – I say thou art the murderer of the man whose
murderer thou pursuest
o Oedipus – Thou shalt rue it twice to repeat so gross a
calumny.
o Teiresias – Must I say more to aggravate thy rage?
o Oedipus – Say all thou wilt; it will be but waste of breath.
- Summary: Oedipus doesn’t get what Teiresias is trying to say so
Teiresias plainly says that he is the murderer of Laius. Oedipus
still in rage questions him but Teiresias will say no more to
aggravate his rage.
- Comprehension Question: What does Teiresias finally admit?
- Vocabulary Question: Twice to repeat so gross a _______.
- A) Calumny
B) Nationalization
- C) Measurement
D) Murder
- What does the term Calumny stand for?
- Discussion Question: Do you think that Teiresius needs to repeat
himself one more time for Oedipus to get a picture of what he
was really saying?
CELL #8
- Quote: Teiresias – King as thou art, free speech at least is mind
to make reply; in this I am thy peer. I own no lord but Loxias;
him I serve and ne’er can stand enrolled as Creon’s man. Thus
then I answer: since thou hast not spared to twit me with my
blindness—thou hast eyes, yet see’st not in what misery thou art
fallen, nor where thou dwellest nor with whom for mate. Dost
know thy lineage? Nay, thou know’st it not, and all unwitting art
a double foe to thine own kin, the living and the dead; aye and
the dogging curse of mother and sire one day shall drive thee,
like a two-edged sword, beyond our borders, and the eyes that
now see clear shall henceforward endless night. Ah whither shall
thy bitter cry not reach, what crag in all Cithaeron but shall then
Reverberate thy wail, when thou has found with what a
hymeneal thou wast borne home, but to no fair haven, on the
gale! Aye, and a flood of ills thou guessest not shall set thyself
and children in one line. Flout then both crown and my words,
for none of mortals shall be striken worse than thou.
- Summary: Teiresias has a long speech explaining that although
Oedipus might be king he still has freedom of speech, and that
Oedipus doesn’t know his ancestry, and one day it will feel like a
two-edged sword was driven into him, also that Oedipus and his
children shall be punished worse than Oedipus himself will be.
- Comprehension Question: What is Teiresias trying to point out?
- Vocabulary Question: … with what a _______ thou wast borne…
- A) Bridal
B) Nupital
- C) Hymeneal
D) Marriage
- What does the term Hymeneal mean?
-
Discussion Question: Do you think someone will DIE? Again…?
CELL #9
- Quote: Oedipus – What sayest thou—“parents”? Who begat me,
speak?
o Teiresias – This day shall be thy birth-day, and thy grave.
o Oedipus – Thou lov’st to speak in riddles and dark words.
o Teiresias – In reading riddles who so skilled as thou?
-
-
Summary: After that said Oedipus questions who his parents are
and asks Teiresias who his parents are. Teiresias answers in a
riddle “This day shall be your birthday, and thy grave”.
Comprehension Question: What is the argument between
Oedipus and Teiresias about?
Vocabulary Question: This day shall be thy birth-day, and thy
grave.
A) Tombstone
B) Death
C) World
D) Dream
What does the term Grave stand for?
Discussion Question: Who do you think will be Teiresias’ next
victim?
CELL #10
- Quote: Teiresias – I go, but first will tell thee why I came. Thy
frown I dread not, for thou canst not harm me. Hear then: this
man whom thou hast sought to arrest with threats and warrants
this long while, the wretch who murdered Laius—that man is
here. He passes for an alien in the land but soon shall prove a
Theban, native born. And yet his fortune brings him little joy; for
blind of seeing, clad in beggar’s weeds, for purple robes, and
leaning on his staff, to a strange land he soon shall grope his
way, and of the children, inmates of his home, he shall be
proved the brother and the sire, of her who bare him son and
husband both, co-partner, and assassin of his sire. Go in and
ponder this, and if thou find that I have missed the mark,
henceforth declare I have no wit nor skill in prophecy
-
-
Summary: Teiresias leaves but before he leaves he tells Oedipus
why he came. He tells him Laius’ murderer is a Theban and
passes for an alien in the land, and he who will be proved
brother and father of the children of her shall bare husband and
son. And if Teiresias is wrong declare him no wit and no skill of
prophecy
Comprehension Question: What does Teiresias tell Oedipus
before he leaves?
Vocabulary Question: … nor skill in ______.
A) Propriety
B) Devilry
C) Palmistry
D) Augury
What do you think the term prophecy means?
Discussion Question: Do you think Teiresias is right about the
Theban?
Cell #1 Oedipus Rex scene 1 Oedipus meets Teiresias
Quote: [Enter TEIRESIAS, led by a boy.]
OEDIPUS
“Thou knowest, though thy blinded eyes see naught, What plague
infects our city; and we turn To thee, O seer, our one defense and
shield.”
Summary: Oedipus calls for Teiresias the blind prophet because there
is a plague on the city and Teiresias maybe the last hope for saving
the city from death. Teiresias is led in by a boy who helps him get
around.
Reading comprehension:Who's the blind prophet?
Vocabulary: In the quote above the word infects means the same as…
a) eats
b) infests
c) helps
d) beautifies
Discussion question: Do you think Teiresias is really the last hope?
Cell #2 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: OEDIPUS
“The messengers have doubtless told thee--how One course alone
could rid us of the pest, To find the murderers of Laius, And slay them
or expel them from the land.”
Summary:Oedipus wants to know why Teiresias has not replied before
when he sent messages. Oedipus says that he sent a message to
Apollo who told him the curse would only be lifted if the person who
killed Laios is found out and killed or exiled.
Reading comprehension: How can the curse be lifted?
Vocabulary: In the quote above the word slay most closely means…
a)kill
b)fire
c)play
d)toss
Discussion question: If you were Teiresias, would you listen to the
message that Oedipus sent you?
Cell #3 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: Oedipus
“Alas, alas, what misery to be wise When wisdom profits nothing! This
old lore I had forgotten; else I were not here.”
Summary: Teiresias tells Oedipus how horrible it is to know the truth
when it is horrible and you can not fix it. He also says that he should
not have come because it only gives him pain.
Reading comprehension: What does Teiresias know?
Vocabulary: In the quote above the word lore means…
a) saying
b) battle
c) people
d) story
Discussion question: Do you know the truth?
Cell #4 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: OEDIPUS
“What ails thee? Why this melancholy mood?”
TEIRESIAS
“Let me go home; prevent me not; 'twere best That thou shouldst
bear thy burden and I mine.”
Summary: Oedipus asks what is wrong and why Teiresias looks so
grim. Teiresias says that he should go home and each of them should
worry about their own business.
Reading comprehension: What does Teiresias say that they should do?
Vocabulary: In the quote above the word melancholy means…
a) happy
b) sad
c) interested
d) violent
Discussion: Why does it seem like Teiresias wants to avoid talking to
Oedipus? Would you avoid him as well?
Cell #5 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: OEDIPUS
“Oh speak, Withhold not, I adjure thee, if thou know'st, Thy
knowledge. We are all thy suppliants.”
Summary: Oedipus asks Teiresias to tell him anything he knows about
the Plague, and Teiresias answers that they should each deal with their
own fate.
Reading comp: Why does Oedipus ask Teiresias about fate?
Vocab: in the quote above, the word suppliant most nearly means…
a) humble asker
b) proud fighter
c) sad mourner
d) angry barker
Discussion: Why do you think the prophet didn’t want to tell Oedipus
his fate?
Cell #6 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: TEIRESIAS
“Aye, for ye all are witless, but my voice Will ne'er reveal my miseries-or thine.”
Summary: Oedipus begs Teiresias for some information that will help
them, but Teiresias calls them ignorant and says that the knowledge is
a pain for him and if he told it to Oedipus it would then become a pain
for him as well.
Reading comprehension: What is a pain for Teiresias to bear?
Vocabulary: In the quote above the word witless most closely means…
a) ignorant
b) happy
c) blind
d) hungry
Discussion: Is Oedipus really ignorant or stupid?
Cell #7 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: OEDIPUS
“What then, thou knowest, and yet willst not speak! Wouldst thou
betray us and destroy the State?”
Summary: Oedipus says that if Teiresias knows something he should
tell everyone or else he will be betraying the state.
Reading comprehension: Who would be betraying the state by not
discussing what he knows about the plague, according to Oedipus?
Vocabulary: In the quote above betray most closely means…
a) love
b) eat
c) forsake
d) hurt
Discussion: Would you think that Teiresias is betraying the state?
Cell # 8 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: TEIRESIAS
“I will not vex myself nor thee. Why ask Thus idly what from me thou
shalt not learn?”
OEDIPUS
“Monster! thy silence would incense a flint. Will nothing loose thy
tongue? Can nothing melt thee, Or shake thy dogged taciturnity?”
Summary: Teiresias says that he will never be persuaded to give up
information to them so they should stop asking. Oedipus insults
Teiresias when he hears this and calls him a monster and a wicked old
man.
Reading comp: Who does Oedipus call a wicked old man?
Vocabulary: In the sentence above the word taciturnity means…
a) happiness
b) nastiness
c) fierceness
d) calmness
Discussion: Do you like wicked old men like Teiresias?
Cell #9 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: OEDIPUS
“And who could stay his choler when he heard How insolently thou
dost flout the State?”
TEIRESIAS
Well, it will come what will, though I be mute.
Summary: Oedipus then says he can not endure Teiresias’ silence any
more. Teiresias answers that no matter what the future is going to
happen and no one can help it even if they have the information.
Reading comp: What can't Oedipus endure?
Vocabulary: In the quote above flout most closely means…
a) gladden
b) fool
c) mock
d) eat
Discussion: Should Teiresias stay silent about what he knows?
Cell #10 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: TEIRESIAS
“I have no more to say; storm as thou willst, And give the rein to all
thy pent-up rage.”
OEDIPUS
“Yea, I am wroth, and will not stint my words, But speak my whole
mind. Thou methinks thou art he, Who planned the crime, aye, and
performed it too, All save the assassination; and if thou Hadst not
been blind, I had been sworn to boot That thou alone didst do the
bloody deed.”
Summary: When Teiresias still refuses to give up any information
Oedipus accuses him of plotting with Creon to kill Laius and that if
Teiresias could see he would have done it himself.
Reading comp: What won't Teiresias do?
Vocabulary: In the quote above stint means…
a) kill
b) hold back
c) mean
d) take
Discussion: Should Teiresias give in?
Cell #11 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: TEIRESIAS
“Is it so? Then I charge thee to abide By thine own proclamation;
from this day Speak not to these or me. Thou art the man, Thou the
accursed polluter of this land.”
OEDIPUS
“Vile slanderer, thou blurtest forth these taunts, And think'st forsooth
as seer to go scot free.”
Summary: After hearing what Oedipus says to him, Teiresias says that
they should never speak to each other again. Oedipus gets insulted
and, as Teiresias goes to leave, Oedipus says that Teiresias will not go
free after such insolence.
Reading comp: Who should never talk to Teiresias again?
Vocabulary: In the quote above the word slanderer means…
a) killer
b) eater
c) defamer
d) liar
Discussion: Do you think that Teiresias might like Oedipus?
Cell # 12 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: TEIRESIAS
“No, for thy weird is not to fall by me. I leave to Apollo what concerns
the god.”
OEDIPUS
“Is this a plot of Creon, or thine own?”
TEIRESIAS
“Not Creon, thou thyself art thine own bane.”
Summary: Teiresias and Oedipus now get involved in a war of words
and during the insults Teiresias says that Oedipus will bring his own
doom upon himself and no one else will do it.
Reading comp: Who does Teiresias say is going to die?
Vocabulary: In the quote above bane most closely means…
a) misery
b) savior
c) helper
d) death
Discussion: Is Oedipus really going to die? Can't he just stay alive
forever?
Cell #13 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: Oedipus
“See, for this crown the State conferred on me. A gift, a thing I sought
not, for this crown The trusty Creon, my familiar friend, Hath lain in
wait to oust me and suborned This mountebank, this juggling
charlatan, This tricksy beggar-priest, for gain alone Keen-eyed, but in
his proper art stone-blind.”
Summary: Oedipus says that Creon is envious of his position as king
and he probably sent Teiresias to fool Oedipus and manipulate his way
into power.
Reading comprehension: What does Oedipus say?
Vocabulary: In the quote above the word charlatan most closely
means…
a) smiling killer
b) stabbing friend
c) phony sneak
d) honest enemy
Discussion: Would you send some annoying person to fool someone
you hate?
Cell #14 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: Oedipus
“This is the man whom thou wouldst undermine, In hope to reign with
Creon in my stead. Methinks that thou and thine abettor soon Will rue
your plot to drive the scapegoat out. Thank thy grey hairs that thou
hast still to learn What chastisement such arrogance deserves.”
Summary: Oedipus says that Teiresias is only doing this so he can be
Creons’s friend when Creon is king. Oedipus says that if Teiresias was
not old he would have been punished already. Choragos replies that
Oedipus was only speaking out of anger which no one needs.
Reading Comp: Who would've been punished if he wasn't old?
Vocabulary: In the quote above chastisement most closely means…
a) happiness, joy
b) embarrassment, shame
c) calamity, disaster
d) scolding, beating
Discussion: Is anger necessary when trying to win a war of insults?
Cell # 15 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: Teiresias
“Thus then I answer: since thou hast not spared To twit me with my
blindness--thou hast eyes, Yet see'st not in what misery thou art
fallen, Nor where thou dwellest nor with whom for mate.”
Summary: Teiresias says that though Oedipus is king he is much
better and more Powerful. Teiresias also says that Oedipus should not
mock him because though Oedipus has both eyes he is much blinder
to what is going on around him.
Reading Comp: Who is more blind of what is going on, Oedipus or
Teiresias?
Vocabulary: In the quote above the word twit most closely means…
a) insult
b) hit
c) love
d) hurt
Discussion: Is Oedipus really more blind than a blind guy?
Cell #16 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: Teiresias
“Aye and the dogging curse of mother and sire One day shall drive
thee, like a two-edged sword, Beyond our borders, and the eyes that
now See clear shall henceforward endless night. Flout then both Creon
and my words, for none Of mortals shall be striken worse than thou.”
Summary: Teiresias also tells Oedipus that one day he will be cursed
horribly and be hated. Teiresias says that Oedipus will be the most
tortured man to walk the earth.
Reading Comp: Who does Teiresias say will be the most tortured man
to walk the earth?
Vocabulary: In the quote above the word henceforward most closely
means…
a) from now on
b) never be
c) eat
e) see
Discussion: Would you rather be hated or ignored—why?
Cell #17 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: OEDIPUS
“Must I endure this fellow's insolence? A murrain on thee! Get thee
hence! Begone Avaunt! and never cross my threshold more.”
TEIRESIAS
“I ne'er had come hadst thou not bidden me.”
Summary: Oedipus hears what Teiresias has to say and then asks how
he is supposed to deal with what Teiresias is saying and that Teiresias
should leave right away. Teiresias replies saying he would not have
even come if Oedipus had not called him.
Reading comprehension: Who called whom?
Vocabulary: In the quote above the word murrain most closely
means…
a) disease
b) blessing
c) curse
d) man
Discussion: Would you call someone you hated to help you?
Cell # 18 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: OEDIPUS
“I know not thou wouldst utter folly, else Long hadst thou waited to
be summoned here.” TEIRESIAS
“Such am I--as it seems to thee a fool, But to the parents who begat
thee, wise.”
Summary: Oedipus says he would not have called Teiresias if he knew
he was only going to talk nonsense and anger him. Teiresias then tells
Oedipus that Oedipus’ parents thought he was sane enough.
Reading comprehension: Who angered Oedipus?
Vocabulary: In the quote above the word folly most closely means…
a) nonsense
b) a horse
c) a cow
d) fun
Discussion: Do you think Teiresias really knows Oedipus’ parents?
Cell #19 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: OEDIPUS
“What sayest thou--"parents"? Who begat me, speak?”
TEIRESIAS
“This day shall be thy birth-day, and thy grave.”
OEDIPUS
“Thou lov'st to speak in riddles and dark words.”
Summary: Oedipus is frustrated and wants Teiresias to tell him who
his parents were, but Teiresias only answers Oedipus’ questions in
riddles.
Reading comprehension: With what does Teiresias answer Oedipus’
questions?
Vocabulary: In the quote above the word begat most closely means…
a) brooded
b) killed
c) came before
d) hurt
Discussion: Could Teiresias be faking his blindness as an act?
Cell #20 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: TEIRESIAS
“'Tis time I left thee. Come, boy, take me home.”
OEDIPUS
“Aye, take him quickly, for his presence irks And lets me; gone, thou
canst not plague me more.”
TEIRESIAS
“I go, but first will tell thee why I came. Thy frown I dread not, for
thou canst not harm me. Hear then: this man whom thou hast sought
to arrest With threats and warrants this long while, the wretch Who
murdered Laius--that man is here.”
Summary: Teiresias leans over to the boy and asks the boy to lead
him out. Oedipus tells the boy to take Teiresias away and leave him in
peace. Teiresias replies that he will go when he feels like it and soon
he will find who murdered Laius.
Reading comprehension: To whom does Teiresias lean over?
Vocabulary: In the quote above the word wretch most closely means…
a) cool guy
b) friend
c) villain
d) hothead
Discussion: Is it good idea to kill one’s father and marry one’s mother?
Cell # 21 Oedipus Rex scene 1
Quote: Teresias
“To a strange land he soon shall grope his way. And of the children,
inmates of his home, He shall be proved the brother and the sire, Of
her who bare him son and husband both, Co-partner, and assassin of
his sire. Go in and ponder this, and if thou find That I have missed the
mark, henceforth declare I have no wit nor skill in prophecy.”
Summary: Teiresias then tells Oedipus that he will find that the same
person who killed Laius will kill his father and marry his own mother.
Teiresias also says that if Oedipus finds any error in these prophecies
he can call him a fake prophet.
Reading comprehension: What does Teiresias predict Oedipus will do?
Vocabulary: In the quote above the word ponder most closely means…
a) think over
b) forget
c) love
d) eat
Discussion: Do you think before you speak?
Cell #22 Oedipus Rex scene 2
Quote: CREON
“Friends, countrymen, I learn King Oedipus Hath laid against me a
most grievous charge, And come to you protesting.”
CHORUS
“This taunt, it well may be, was blurted out In petulance, not spoken
advisedly.”
Summary: Creon addresses the people of Thebes and tells them that
although accusations have been brought on him by Oedipus, none of
them are true, and he is very angry. Choragos replies that Oedipus
may have said something out of anger but it is nothing serious.
Reading comprehension: Does Choragos think what Oedipus said is
serious?
Vocabulary: In the quote above the word grievous means…
a) happy
b) thought out
c) afflicting
d) loving
Discussion: If you were Oedipus, would you make false accusations
against Creon?
Cell #23 Oedipus Rex scene 2
Quote: CREON
“Were not his wits and vision all astray when upon me he fixed this
monstrous charge?” CHORUS
“I know not; to my sovereign's acts I am blind. But lo, he comes to
answer for himself.”
Summary: Creon asks Choragos if Oedipus looked in his right mind
when he said the things he is accused of. Choragos says he does not
know and Creon should talk to Oedipus himself.
Reading comprehension: What does Creon ask Choragos?
Vocabulary: In the quote above the word astray most closely means:
a) put together
b) happy
c) working
d) awry
Discussion: What will Creon do about the accusations?
Cell # 1 --- How dare you!!!!!!!
Quote: “Dids’t thou detect in me some touch of cowardice or
witlessness, that made thee undertake this enterprise?”
--- Oedipus
Summary: Oedipus comes in and starts yelling at Creon, accusing him
of usurping his crown.
Reading Comprehension question: Explain “the filcher of my
crown”.
Vocabulary question: “Dost thou presume to approach my door,
thou brazen-faced rogue, my murderer and filcher of my crown.”
---- Oedipus
In the quote above, the word rogue most nearly means…….
a) Scoundrel
b) Red-faced person
c) Grouch
d) Madman
Discussion question: Should Oedipus be accusing Creon like this
without even listening to his argument?
Cell # 2 ---- I disagree with what you say, and I think you are a fool
for saying it
Quote: “Thou are glib of tongue, but I am slow to learn of thee; I
know too well thy venomous hate.”
--- Oedipus
Summary: Creon wants to refute Oedipus’ accusations, but Oedipus
keeps interrupting.
Reading Comprehension question: What is Creon’s argument?
Vocabulary question: “ If thou dost count a virtue stubbornness,
unschooled by reason, thou are much astray.”
----- Creon
In the quote above, virtue most likely means………
a) Tangled trait
b) A Good Quality
c) Person’s
d) Fortune
Discussion question: Is stubbornness a virtue? Explain. DO NOT only
say yes or no.
Cell # 3 ---Long time gone
Quote: ”I follow not thy drift.”
--- Creon
Summary: Oedipus asks when Laius was killed. Creon answers that it
was a long time ago.
Reading Comprehension question: How long has it been since
Laius was killed?
Vocabulary question: “In the dim past, a many years agone.”
---- Creon
In the quote above, agone most nearly means ………..
a) Soon to come
b) Forth
c) Spent
d) Past
Discussion question: Why do you think Oedipus is asking these
questions? Do you think that he is possibly thinking that he might
actually be the murderer?
Cell # 4 ---- I don’t know
Quote: “ I know not, and not knowing hold my tongue.”
---- Creon
Summary: Oedipus questions Creon about the prophecy of the
prophet, but Creon claims he does not know about it.
Reading Comprehension question: Who is Oedipus asking about,
which prophet?
Vocabulary question: “Surely full quest was made, but nothing
learnt”
---Creon
In the quote above, quest most nearly means …………
a)
b)
c)
d)
Search for the holy grail
Investigation
Discovery
Bargain
Discussion question: What do you think Jocasta will think about all
of this?
Cell # 5 -- “I don’t know anything;” “Yes you do;” “No I don’t;” “Yes
you do;” “No...
Quote: “If so he thou knowest best; but I would put thee to the
question in my turn.”
--- Creon
“ Question and prove me murderer if thou canst.”
---Oedipus
Summary: Oedipus accuses Creon of not telling him everything, and
in turn Creon accuses Oedipus of being the murderer of King Laius.
Oedipus dares him to prove his accusation.
Reading Comprehension question: Who accuses whom of being a
muderer?
Vocabulary question: “What’s mean’st thou? All I know I will
declare.”
--- Creon
In the quote above, declare most nearly means…….
a) Keep to myself
b) Not say
c) Tell
d) Hate
Discussion question: Even though Oedipus has the power, as king,
to banish or kill Creon for these accusations, he chooses not to. Why?
Cell # 6 --- Be a strong monarch
Quote: “Would any mortal choose a troubled reign of terrors rather
that secure repose, If the same power were given to him?”
--- Creon
Summary: Creon asks if his sister has an equal share of power before
going on to call Oedipus’ ruling a “ troubled reign of terrors”. He is
asking why Oedipus even allows such accusations to be made. He
continues, saying that he does not want to be king, just wants to help
out the people. Creon tells Oedipus to go to the oracle and ask
whether or not he was telling the truth. If he lied, he gives Oedipus
permission to kill him.
Reading Comprehension question: Where does Creon direct
Oedipus to go?
Vocabulary question: “Then let me ask thee, didst thou wed my
sister?”
--- Creon
In the quote above, wed most nearly means ……
a) Marry
b) Love
c) Kill
d) Join
Discussion question: What could Oedipus possibly find out from the
Oracle?
Cell # 7 --- My Thebans?
Quote: Creon:” I see thou wilt not yield, nor credit me.”
Oedipus: “None but a fool would credit such as thou.”
Creon: “Thou are not wise.”
Oedipus: “Wise for myself at least.”
Creon: “Why not for me too?”
Oedipus: “Why for such a knave?”
Summary: Creon asks if he will be banished. Oedipus says he will kill
him, not banish him. Creon asks why he is not to be believed and
Oedipus tells him he is a knave. The Chorus tells the two that Jocasta
is coming.
Reading Comprehension question: What will happen to Creon?
Vocabulary question: “Cease, princes; lo there comes and none too
soon, Jocasta…”
--- Chorus
In the quote above, cease most nearly means ……
a) Keep it up!
b) Stop it
c) Have a go at it
d) Quiet down
Discussion question: Is Creon telling the truth? If he is, should
Oedipus be banishing Creon, or should Oedipus be banished?
Cell # 8 --- Believe in him
Quote: “Misguided princes, why have ye upraised this wordy wrangle?
Are ye not ashamed, while the whole land lies stricken, this to voice
your private injuries?”
--- Jocasta
Summary: Jocasta tells them that they are being silly, arguing over
silly matters while there is a county to run. Creon tells her that
Oedipus just isn’t listening to him and is going to kill him. She in
return tells Oedipus to believe Creon.
Reading Comprehension question: What does Jocasta say they are
neglecting?
Vocabulary question: “ Believe him, I adjure thee, Oedipus….”
---- Jocasta
In the quote above, adjure most nearly means ……
a) Entreat
b) Tell
c) Hate
d) Beg
Discussion question: Does Jocasta even know what is going on?
Cell # 9 ----
Cell #9
Quote: "Thou art as sullen in thy yielding mode as in thine anger thou
wast truculent. Such tempers justly plague themsleves the most." Creon
Summary: The chorus tells Oedipus that Creon is a nice guy and to
listen to him, whatever he is saying.Oedipus asks them if they want
him to be banished or killed, and they reply no,they do not. Oedipus
reluctantly agrees to take back his decision to kill Creon. Jocasta then
enters.
Reading Comprehension question: Does the chorus know what exactly
Creon and Oedipus are arguing about?
Vocabulary question: In the quote above, truculent most nearly
means.....
a) fierce
b)Mad
c) happy
d) horrible
Discussion question: How do you think Oedipus is handling this
situation? Would you handle it differently?
ell # 10
Quote: "An oracle once came to Laius declaring he was doomed to
perish by the hand of his own son, a child that should be born to him
by me. Now Laius--so at least report affirmed--was murdered on a day
by highwaymen, no natives, at a spot where three roads met." Jocasta
Summary: King Oedipus is troubled by what the oracle told Creon.
Jocasta tells him not to worry because the oracle was once wrong. He
was wrong in that Laius did not die by the hand of his son, but by
some robbers. As for the son, they had him shackled to the side of a
mountain. Oedipus becomes troubled because he remembers that he
once killed a few men at a place where three roads met.
Reading Comprehension question: What did Laius have done to his
son?
Vocabulary question: "... Was murdered on a day by highwaymen, no
natives, at a spot where three roads met."
In the quote above, native most nearly means......
a) An original settler of Greece
b) A man born in Thebes
c) Indian
d) Silly person
Discussion question: Did curiosity kill the cat? Should Oedipus have
worked so hard to find out something he did not want to hear?
Cell #1 (Part Three of Oedipus Rex)
"Dost thou presume
To approach my doors, thou brazen-faced rogue,
My murderer and the filcher of my crown?
Come, answer this, didst thou detect in me
Some touch of cowardice or witlessness,
That made thee undertake this enterprise?
I seemed forsooth too simple to perceive
The serpent stealing on me in the dark,
Or else too weak to scotch it when I saw.
This thou art witless seeking to possess
Without a following or friends the crown,
A prize that followers and wealth must win."
Summary: Oedipus curses his last living male relative Creon (except
his sons), who he accuses of stealing his crown?
Reading Comprehension: Why does Oedipus accuse Creon of stealing
his crown?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word scotch most nearly means…
A) catch
B) steal
C) mask
D) nullify
E) thwart
Discussion: Who more justly deserves the crown, Oedipus or Creon?
Cell #2 (Part Three of Oedipus Rex)
CREON
First I would argue out this very point.
OEDIPUS
O argue not that thou art not a rogue.
CREON
If thou dost count a virtue stubbornness,
Unschooled by reason, thou art much astray.
OEDIPUS
If thou dost hold a kinsman may be wronged,
And no pains follow, thou art much to seek.
CREON
Therein thou judgest rightly, but this wrong
That thou allegest--tell me what it is.
Summary: Creon tells Oedipus that he should not be so quick to judge
Creon, because Oedipus does not have the facts straight.
Reading Comprehension: Why does Oedipus call Creon a rogue?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, rogue most nearly means…
A. Wanderer
B. Murderer
C. Dog
D. Scoundrel
E. Man
Discussion: Why is Oedipus so quick to judge?
Cell #3 (Part Three of Oedipus Rex)
OEDIPUS
Didst thou or didst thou not advise that I
Should call the priest?
CREON
Yes, and I stand to it.
Summary: Oedipus describes how the reason that Creon is a villain
entails the fact that he told Oedipus to use an oracle to find out about
his past and his fate.
Reading Comprehension: What is the reason Oedipus calls Creon a
rogue?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word thou most nearly means…
A. I
B. You
C. He
D. It
E. They
Discussion: Would you have told Oedipus to use a wizard?
Cell #4 (Part Three of Oedipus Rex)
CREON
Since Laius...? I follow not thy drift.
OEDIPUS
By violent hands I was spirited away.
CREON
In the dim past, a many years agone.
OEDIPUS
Did the same prophet then pursue his craft?
CREON
Yes, skilled as now and in no less repute.
Summary: Oedipus asks Creon how long ago Laius died, and if the
same prophet knew about it.
Reading Comprehension: Who died?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word drift most nearly means…
A. Implication
B.
C.
D.
E.
Float
Thump
Rift
Subtleties
Discussion: Do you trust Creon?
Cell #5 (Part Three of Oedipus Rex)
OEDIPUS
Why failed the seer to tell his story then?
CREON
I know not, and not knowing hold my tongue.
OEDIPUS
This much thou knowest and canst surely tell.
CREON
What's mean'st thou? All I know I will declare.
OEDIPUS
But for thy prompting never had the seer
Ascribed to me the death of Laius.
CREON
If so he thou knowest best; but I
Would put thee to the question in my turn.
Summary: Creon tells Oedipus everything about the soothsayer, and
becomes curious to what Oedipus knows about Laius.
Reading Comprehension: Who questions whom?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word ascribe most nearly means…
A. Scribe
B. Assign
C. Help
D. Deny
E. Advance
Discussion: Who do you think is right?
Cell #6 (Part Three of Oedipus Rex)
CREON
Not so, if thou wouldst reason with thyself,
As I with myself. First, I bid thee think,
Would any mortal choose a troubled reign
Of terrors rather than secure repose,
If the same power were given him? As for me,
I have no natural craving for the name
Of king, preferring to do kingly deeds,
And so thinks every sober-minded man.
Now all my needs are satisfied through thee,
And I have naught to fear; but were I king,
My acts would oft run counter to my will.
How could a title then have charms for me
Above the sweets of boundless influence?
I am not so infatuate as to grasp
The shadow when I hold the substance fast.
Now all men cry me Godspeed! wish me well,
And every suitor seeks to gain my ear,
If he would hope to win a grace from thee.
Why should I leave the better, choose the worse?
That were sheer madness, and I am not mad.
No such ambition ever tempted me,
Nor would I have a share in such intrigue.
And if thou doubt me, first to Delphi go,
There ascertain if my report was true
Of the god's answer; next investigate
If with the seer I plotted or conspired,
And if it prove so, sentence me to death,
Not by thy voice alone, but mine and thine.
But O condemn me not, without appeal,
On bare suspicion. 'Tis not right to adjudge
Bad men at random good, or good men bad.
I would as lief a man should cast away
The thing he counts most precious, his own life,
As spurn a true friend. Thou wilt learn in time
The truth, for time alone reveals the just;
A villain is detected in a day.
Summary: Creon takes a moment for his monologue and tells Oedipus
how Creon owns part of the thrown, and Oedipus should be careful in
how he casts his judgment.
Reading Comprehension: Why does Creon have so much to say?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word Godspeed most nearly
means
A. Go with God’s help to make one speedy
B. Go with God
C. Good day
D. Good morning
E. Good luck caused quickly by God
Discussion: Do you think there are two correct answers in the
vocabulary, explain why. In what sense does Creon use it?
Cell #7 (Part Three of Oedipus Rex)
CREON
What then's thy will? To banish me the land?
OEDIPUS
I would not have thee banished, no, but dead,
That men may mark the wages envy reaps.
Summary: Oedipus tells Creon that he wants to execute him.
Reading Comprehension: Why might Creon be getting executed?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word reaps most nearly means…
A. gains as result of action
B. shrinks socks
C. grows tall
D. harvests grain
E. growls as a toad
Discussion: Do you think Creon will be executed?
Cell #8 (Part Three of Oedipus Rex)
CHORUS
Cease, princes; lo there comes, and none too soon,
Jocasta from the palace. Who so fit
As peacemaker to reconcile your feud?
[Enter JOCASTA.]
JOCASTA
Misguided princes, why have ye upraised
This wordy wrangle? Are ye not ashamed,
While the whole land lies striken, thus to voice
Your private injuries? Go in, my lord;
Go home, my brother, and forebear to make
A public scandal of a petty grief.
Summary: Jocasta enters and tries to smooth out the situation.
Reading Comprehension: Why does Jocasta try to soothe them?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word forbear most nearly means…
A. refrain
B. restrain
C. resort
D. bear
E. impregnate
Discussion: Why is Jocasta trying to help?
Cell #9 (Part Three of Oedipus Rex)
OEDIPUS
Yes, lady; I have caught him practicing
Against my royal person his vile arts.
CREON
May I ne'er speed but die accursed, if I
In any way am guilty of this charge.
JOCASTA
Believe him, I adjure thee, Oedipus,
First for his solemn oath's sake, then for mine,
And for thine elders' sake who wait on thee.
Summary: Oedipus accuses Creon of plotting to kill him, and Jocasta
begs Oedipus to believe Creon.
Reading Comprehension: Who is plotting to get killed?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word adjure most nearly means…
A. Beg
B. Cancel
C. Ask
D. Question
E. Hide
Discussion: What do you think her kindness will do?
Cell #10 (Part Three of Oedipus Rex)
OEDIPUS
Well, let him go, no matter what it cost me,
Or certain death or shameful banishment,
For your sake I relent, not his; and him,
Where'er he be, my heart shall still abhor.
CREON
Thou art as sullen in thy yielding mood
As in thine anger thou wast truculent.
Such tempers justly plague themselves the most.
OEDIPUS
Leave me in peace and get thee gone.
CREON
I go,
By thee misjudged, but justified by these.
[Exeunt CREON]
Summary: Oedipus agrees to let Creon live, though he hates him.
Creon exits.
Reading Comprehension: Who leaves?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word abhor most nearly means…
A. love
B. abort
C. detest
D. ignore
E. destroy
Discussion: Do you think that in Oedipus’s heart of hearts, he really
hates Creon? Vice-versa?
Cell #11 (Part Three of Oedipus Rex)
OEDIPUS
I will, for thou art more to me than these.
Lady, the cause is Creon and his plots.
JOCASTA
But what provoked the quarrel? make this clear.
OEDIPUS
He points me out as Laius' murderer.
JOCASTA
Of his own knowledge or upon report?
OEDIPUS
He is too cunning to commit himself,
And makes a mouthpiece of a knavish seer.
Summary: Oedipus claims that Creon thinks Oedipus killed Laius.
Jocasta questions her husband/son.
Reading Comprehension: Who thinks Oedipus killed Laius?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word mouthpiece most nearly
means…
A. dentures
B. puppet
C. president
D. speaker
E. representative
Discussion: Do you think Oedipus killed Laius?
Cell #12 (Part Three of Oedipus Rex)
JOCASTA
Then thou mayest ease thy conscience on that score.
Listen and I'll convince thee that no man
Hath scot or lot in the prophetic art.
Here is the proof in brief. An oracle
Once came to Laius (I will not say
'Twas from the Delphic god himself, but from
His ministers) declaring he was doomed
To perish by the hand of his own son,
A child that should be born to him by me.
Now Laius--so at least report affirmed-Was murdered on a day by highwaymen,
No natives, at a spot where three roads meet.
As for the child, it was but three days old,
When Laius, its ankles pierced and pinned
Together, gave it to be cast away
By others on the trackless mountain side.
So then Apollo brought it not to pass
The child should be his father's murderer,
Or the dread terror find accomplishment,
And Laius be slain by his own son.
Such was the prophet's horoscope. O king,
Regard it not. Whate'er the god deems fit
To search, himself unaided will reveal.
Summary: Jocasta describes the story of Laius’ death.
Reading Comprehension: What God does she mention?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word affirm most nearly means…
A. acclaim
B. assert
C. inform
D. despise
E. control
Discussion: How will Oedipus respond?
Cell #13 (Part Three of Oedipus Rex)
OEDIPUS
What memories, what wild tumult of the soul
Came o'er me, lady, as I heard thee speak!
Summary: Oedipus has a flashback, or memory, that reminds him of
the story he just heard.
Reading Comprehension: What does Oedipus say?
Vocabulary: In the quote above, the word tumult most nearly means…
A. squeeze
B. melt
C. death
D. uproar
E. stirring
Discussion: What does Oedipus’ response imply?
Oedipus Rex: Scene IV: Cell #1
Illustration:
Quote:
OEDIPUS
What memories, what wild tumult of the soul
Came o'er me, lady, as I heard thee speak!
JOCASTA
What mean'st thou? What has shocked and startled thee?
OEDIPUS
Methought I heard thee say that Laius
Was murdered at the meeting of three roads.
JOCASTA
So ran the story that is current still.
Summary:
Jocasta had just told Oedipus some distressing news. When
Oedipus hears her words, he is “shocked and startled,” for her words
make him remember some terrible memories from his past. Her news
seems to envelope him in a disheartening aura. The piece of news that
Lauis was murdered at the intersection of three roads seems to greatly
distress Oedipus. The news that Lauis has been murdered greatly
distresses Oedipus, so much that he asks if he has heard her correctly.
Reading Comprehension Question:
In what manner does Oedipus receive Jocasta’s news?
Vocabulary Question:
In the quote above, the word tumult most likely means:
a) Blinding heat
b) Washed laundry
c) Noisy confusion
d) Stinky rotten cabbages
Discussion Question:
What memories might have Jocasta’s news triggered in Oedipus that
greatly distresses him so?
Oedipus Rex: Scene IV: Cell #2
Illustration:
Quote:
OEDIPUS
Where did this happen? Dost thou know the place?
JOCASTA
Phocis the land is called; the spot is where
Branch roads from Delphi and from Daulis meet.
OEDIPUS
And how long is it since these things befell?
JOCASTA
'Twas but a brief while were thou wast proclaimed
Our country's ruler that the news was brought.
OEDIPUS
O Zeus, what hast thou willed to do with me!
Summary:
Oedipus continues to question Jocasta for more details in the
news she has brought to him. His questions include details on when
and where Laius died. Jocasta tells him that the event took place in a
land called Phocis, at an intersection of roads. As for when, she tells
him it was not long before he had been crowned king. Oedipus cries
out to Zeus for a revelation for his future, in order to find answers to
this unexpected upbringing.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What things does Oedipus ask of Jocasta?
Vocabulary Question:
In the quote above, the word befell most likely means:
a) To have happened
b) To have fallen in a ditch
c) To have rung a bell
d) To have mourned
Discussion Question:
Who was Laius to Oedipus for him to lament so over his death?
Oedipus Rex: Scene IV: Cell #3
Illustration:
Quote:
JOCASTA
What is it, Oedipus that moves thee so?
OEDIPUS
Ask me not yet; tell me the build and height
Of Laius? Was he still in manhood's prime?
JOCASTA
Tall was he, and his hair was lightly strewn
With silver; and not unlike thee in form.
OEDIPUS
O woe is me! Methinks unwittingly
I laid but now a dread curse on myself.
JOCASTA
What say'st thou? When I look upon thee, my king,
I tremble.
Summary:
Jocasta is puzzled over Oedipus’s reaction over her news and
begins to ask him questions. She asks him what is wrong with him.
Oedipus asks her not to press him for answers yet, and continues to
press her for more details on Laius. He asks of Laius’ height and build,
as well as physical appearance. She tells him that Laius was similar to
Oedipus in form, which distresses him even more.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What did Laius look like? Who did he closely resemble?
Vocabulary Question:
In the quote above, the word dread most likely means:
a) Blessed
b) Bountiful
c) Terrible
d) Extraordinary
Discussion Question:
Why do you think Oedipus does not want to reveal to Jocasta what
Lauis’ relationship was to him?
Oedipus Rex: Scene IV: Cell #4
Illustration:
Quote:
OEDIPUS
'Tis a dread presentiment
That in the end the seer will prove not blind.
One further question to resolve my doubt.
JOCASTA
I quail; but ask, and I will answer all.
OEDIPUS
Had he but few attendants or a train
Of armed retainers with him, like a prince?
JOCASTA
They were but five in all, and one of them
A herald; Laius in a mule-car rode.
OEDIPUS
Alas! 'tis clear as noonday now. But say,
Lady, who carried this report to Thebes?
JOCASTA
A serf, the sole survivor who returned.
Summary:
Oedipus’s reason in continuing to ask Jocasta questions about
the news was to try and prove that the Laius he knows is not the one
and same person as the murdered man. He tries to find alternate
reasons to avoid confronting the truth, so he shields himself with
doubt. To Oedipus’s dismay, the Laius Jocasta tells him about is indeed
the one Oedipus refers to. Jocasta tells him of an ambush of a caravan
of a rich man’s company. This new piece of news crushes Oedipus’s
doubt, and showers him with grief.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What was Oedipus’ reason for asking all these questions about Lauis?
What was he trying to do?
Vocabulary Question:
In the quote above, the word quail most likely means:
a) To blench, as in fear
b) To sing, as a bird
c) To express anger, falsely
d) To be bored, as a student
Discussion Question:
How does Oedipus’ doubting nature relate to human emotions
involving receiving distressing news? What actions might Oedipus take
next in terms of his emotions?
Oedipus Rex: Scene IV: Cell #5
Illustration:
Quote:
OEDIPUS
Haply he is at hand or in the house?
JOCASTA
No, for as soon as he returned and found
Thee reigning in the stead of Laius slain,
He clasped my hand and supplicated me
To send him to the alps and pastures, where
He might be farthest from the sight of Thebes.
And so I sent him. 'Twas an honest slave
And well deserved some better recompense.
OEDIPUS
Fetch him at once. I fain would see the man.
JOCASTA
He shall be brought; but wherefore summon him?
OEDIPUS
Lady, I fear my tongue has overrun
Discretion; therefore I would question him.
Summary:
Oedipus asks for the slave that had brought the news to his
hearing. Jocasta tells him that she had granted the slave’s request to
go to a remote place in the mountains, for he had asked to be sent as
far away from Thebes as possible. Oedipus orders for the slave’s
return in order to question him of the events that had occurred in the
death of Laius.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Why had Jocasta sent the slave away?
Vocabulary Question:
In the quote above, the word supplicated most likely means:
a) beseeched
b) resented
c) repented
d) fed
Discussion Question:
Why does Oedipus want to question the slave? What does he think he
will achieve from his further questioning?
Oedipus Rex: Scene IV: Cell #6
Illustration:
Quote:
OEDIPUS
But if
Betwixt this stranger there was aught in common
With Laius, who more miserable than I,
What mortal could you find more god-abhorred?
Wretch whom no sojourner, no citizen
May harbor or address, whom all are bound
To harry from their homes. And this same curse
Was laid on me, and laid by none but me.
Summary:
Oedipus reveals to Jocasta the reason behind his grief. Laius’s
death has made him recall the prophecy at his birth. The prophecy was
of his destiny to kill his father and to marry his mother. His distress is
over the murder Jocasta was telling him about and whether it was the
one he himself committed, for the circumstances are very similar in
nature. If it is indeed the same event, Oedipus realizes that the
prophecy at his birth came true.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Why is Oedipus distraught over Laius death?
Vocabulary Question:
In the quote above, the word sojourner most likely means:
a)
b)
c)
d)
A
A
A
A
governor
traveler
visitor
person relaxing in a hot bath
Discussion Question:
Now knowing the reason behind Oedipus’s grief, what is Jocasta likely
to do?
Oedipus Rex: Scene IV: Cell #7
Illustration:
Quote:
OEDIPUS
My hope is faint, but still enough survives
To bid me bide the coming of this herd.
JOCASTA
Suppose him here, what wouldst thou learn of him?
OEDIPUS
I'll tell thee, lady; if his tale agrees
With thine, I shall have 'scaped calamity.
JOCASTA
And what of special import did I say?
OEDIPUS
In thy report of what the herdsman said
Laius was slain by robbers; now if he
Still speaks of robbers, not a robber, I
Slew him not; "one" with "many" cannot square.
But if he says one lonely wayfarer,
The last link wanting to my guilt is forged.
Summary:
Oedipus harbors a single ray of hope. He knows that this slave
could either prove or disprove his theory. Jocasta’s story had said that
several robbers had murdered Lauis. If the slave says that it was the
work of one person, than Oedipus knows that it was indeed him who
committed the murder of his father.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Why is Oedipus anxious to call the slave who witnessed the murder of
Lauis?
Vocabulary Question:
In the quote above, the word import most likely means:
a) Significance
b) Opposite of export
c) Trivial
d) Party
Discussion Question:
What do you think will happen when the slave arrives?
Cell #8
Quote:
JOCASTA
Well, rest assured, his tale ran thus at first,
Nor can he now retract what then he said;
Not I alone but all our townsfolk heard it.
E'en should he vary somewhat in his story,
He cannot make the death of Laius
In any wise jump with the oracle.
For Loxias said expressly he was doomed
To die by my child's hand, but he, poor babe,
He shed no blood, but perished first himself.
So much for divination. Henceforth I
Will look for signs neither to right nor left.
OEDIPUS
Thou reasonest well. Still I would have thee send
And fetch the bondsman hither. See to it.
JOCASTA
That will I straightway. Come, let us within.
I would do nothing that my lord mislikes.
[Exeunt OEDIPUS and JOCASTA]
Summary:
Jocasta tells Oedipus the prophecy behind the murder and how it
didn’t fall into what really happened. Jocasta then declares that she no
longer trusts divination after what had just happened. Oedipus still
wants to send for the slave person, and Jocasta says she will see to it.
Then they leave.
Reading Comprehension:
Who no longer trusts divination?
Vocabulary:
Well, rest assured, his tale ran thus at first,
Nor can he now retract what then he said;
Not I alone but all our townsfolk heard it.
a. recoil, as a shotgun
b. take back, as a statement
c. reflect, as a mirror
d. revert, as a skate trick
Discussion Question:
How do you imagine Oedipus feels at this time?
Cell #9
Quote:
CHORUS
(Str. 1)
My lot be still to lead
The life of innocence and fly
Irreverence in word or deed,
To follow still those laws ordained on high
Whose birthplace is the bright ethereal sky
No mortal birth they own,
Olympus their progenitor alone:
Ne'er shall they slumber in oblivion cold,
The god in them is strong and grows not old.
(Ant. 1)
Of insolence is bred
The tyrant; insolence full blown,
With empty riches surfeited,
Scales the precipitous height and grasps the throne.
Then topples o'er and lies in ruin prone;
No foothold on that dizzy steep.
But O may Heaven the true patriot keep
Who burns with emulous zeal to serve the State.
God is my help and hope, on him I wait.
(Str. 2)
But the proud sinner, or in word or deed,
That will not Justice heed,
Nor reverence the shrine
Of images divine,
Perdition seize his vain imaginings,
If, urged by greed profane,
He grasps at ill-got gain,
And lays an impious hand on holiest things.
Who when such deeds are done
Can hope heaven's bolts to shun?
If sin like this to honor can aspire,
Why dance I still and lead the sacred choir?
Summary:
The chorus is basically worried about whether the prophecy was false.
They start to wonder that if the prophecy was incorrect, then the
deities of Olympus don’t run the universe.
Reading comprehension: About what was the chorus worrying?
Vocabulary:
And lays an impious hand on holiest things.
a. pious
b. imperfect
c. unholy
d. important
Discussion: Do you think the chorus feels the same way about the
gods not being real as a child feels when he/she hears that Santa
Claus is not real?
Cell #10
Quote:
(Ant. 2)
No more I'll seek earth's central oracle,
Or Abae's hallowed cell,
Nor to Olympia bring
My votive offering.
If before all God's truth be not bade plain.
O Zeus, reveal thy might,
King, if thou'rt named aright
Omnipotent, all-seeing, as of old;
For Laius is forgot;
His weird, men heed it not;
Apollo is forsook and faith grows cold.
Summary: The chorus declares that they are not going to worship
their gods anymore if the prophecy proved inaccurate.
Reading Comprehension: What is the chorus doing?
Vocabulary question:
Nor to Olympia bring My votive offering.
a. screamy
b. demoted
c. lavish
d. worshipful
Discussion Question: Would you give up all belief in your god(s)
because of an inaccurate prophecy?
Cell #11
Quote:
[Enter JOCASTA.]
JOCASTA
My lords, ye look amazed to see your queen
With wreaths and gifts of incense in her hands.
I had a mind to visit the high shrines,
For Oedipus is overwrought, alarmed
With terrors manifold. He will not use
His past experience, like a man of sense,
To judge the present need, but lends an ear
To any croaker if he augurs ill.
Since then my counsels naught avail, I turn
To thee, our present help in time of trouble,
Apollo, Lord Lycean, and to thee
My prayers and supplications here I bring.
Lighten us, lord, and cleanse us from this curse!
For now we all are cowed like mariners
Who see their helmsman dumbstruck in the storm.
[Enter Corinthian MESSENGER.]
MESSENGER
My masters, tell me where the palace is
Of Oedipus; or better, where's the king.
Summary:
Jocasta plans to visit the shrine to pray for Oedipus. She cries for
Apollo to cleanse her family from the curse that has befallen them.
Afterwards, a messenger arrives and asks for Oedipus.
Reading Comprehension:
Who asks for Oedipus?
Vocabulary:
For Oedipus is overwrought.
a. overwhelmed
b. overwashed
c. appalled
d. fishy
Discussion:
What do you think the messenger wants with Oedipus?
Cell #12
Quote:
CHORUS
Here is the palace and he bides within;
This is his queen the mother of his children.
MESSENGER
All happiness attend her and the house,
Blessed is her husband and her marriage-bed.
JOCASTA
My greetings to thee, stranger; thy fair words
Deserve a like response. But tell me why
Thou comest--what thy need or what thy news.
MESSENGER
Good for thy consort and the royal house.
JOCASTA
What may it be? Whose messenger art thou?
MESSENGER
The Isthmian commons have resolved to make
Thy husband king--so 'twas reported there.
Summary:
The chorus tells the messenger that he has arrived at the house of
Oedipus. The messenger dude tells Jocasta that the isthmian commons
want Oedipus to rule their kingdom.
Reading Comprehension:
What does the messenger tell Jocasta?
Vocabulary:
Here is the palace and he bides within;
This is his queen the mother of his children.
a. borrows
b. resides
c. rules
d. strives
Discussion question:
How would you feel if you had to rule a kingdom?
Cell #13
Quote:
JOCASTA
What! is not aged Polybus still king?
MESSENGER
No, verily; he's dead and in his grave.
JOCASTA
What! is he dead, the sire of Oedipus?
MESSENGER
If I speak falsely, may I die myself.
JOCASTA
Quick, maiden, bear these tidings to my lord.
Ye god-sent oracles, where stand ye now!
This is the man whom Oedipus long shunned,
In dread to prove his murderer; and now
He dies in nature's course, not by his hand.
[Enter OEDIPUS.]
OEDIPUS
My wife, my queen, Jocasta, why hast thou
Summoned me from my palace?
JOCASTA
Hear this man,
And as thou hearest judge what has become
Of all those awe-inspiring oracles.
Summary:
The messenger says that Polybus, the former king, is dead, and
therefore Oedipus must rule the kingdom. The oracle is now proven to
be false, for the king died of natural causes rather than being
murdered by Oedipus. Oedipus comes in as Jocasta prepares to tell
him what the messenger has told her.
Reading comprehension:
What happened to the old king?
Vocabulary:
Quick, maiden, bear these tidings to my lord.
a. greetings and message
b. gifts of poisoned food
c. thankless parasites
d. regards for rain
Discussion question:
What do you think Oedipus is going to do?
Cell #14
s
Quote:
OEDIPUS
Who is this man, and what his news for me?
JOCASTA
He comes from Corinth and his message this:
Thy father Polybus hath passed away.
OEDIPUS
What? let me have it, stranger, from thy mouth.
MESSENGER
If I must first make plain beyond a doubt
My message, know that Polybus is dead.
OEDIPUS
By treachery, or by sickness visited?
MESSENGER
One touch will send an old man to his rest.
OEDIPUS
So of some malady he died, poor man.
MESSENGER
Yes, having measured the full span of years.
OEDIPUS
Out on it, lady! why should one regard
The Pythian hearth or birds that scream i' the air?
Did they not point at me as doomed to slay
My father? but he's dead and in his grave
And here am I who ne'er unsheathed a sword;
Unless the longing for his absent son
Killed him and so _I_ slew him in a sense.
But, as they stand, the oracles are dead-Dust, ashes, nothing, dead as Polybus.
JOCASTA
Say, did not I foretell this long ago?
OEDIPUS
Thou didst: but I was misled by my fear.
Summary:
Oedipus is surprised by Polybus’s death. He too realizes that the oracle
was false.
Reading Comprehension:
What is Oedipus’s reaction?
Vocabulary:
And here am I who ne'er unsheathed a sword
a. married and crowned
b. uncovered and wielded
c. wrought and destroyed
d. carried and dropped
Discussion question: What do you think will happen next?
Cell 1 - Oedipus Questions
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
What memories, what wild tumult of the soul
Came o'er me, lady, as I heard thee speak!”
Summary:
Oedipus comments on Jocasta’s memory. He tells her to come over to
him as she recalls her memory.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What does Oedipus tell Jocasta to do?
Vocabulary Question:
What memories, what wild tumult of the soul Came o'er me, lady, as I
heard thee speak! Tumult nearly means…
a. commotion
b. peace
c. side
d. total destruction
Discussion Question:
What do you think Jocasta told Oedipus that made him think the way
he does?
Cell 2 – Jocasta Answers
Illustration:
Quote:
“JOCASTA
What mean'st thou? What has shocked and startled thee?”
Summary:
Jocasta asks why Oedipus gave such a startling response to what she
told him.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What did Jocasta ask Oedipus?
Vocabulary Question:
What mean'st thou? What has shocked and startled thee?” Startled
nearly means…
a. killed
b. forced
c. beat
d. astonished
Discussion Question:
What do you think Oedipus will say?
Cell 3 – Oedipus Recalls
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
Methought I heard thee say that Laius
Was murdered at the meeting of three roads.”
Summary:
Oedipus says that he heard Jocasta talk about the death of Laius at
the intersection of three roads.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Who was killed at the conjunction of the three roads?
Vocabulary Question:
Methought I heard thee say that Laius Was murdered at the meeting
of three roads. Murdered nearly means…
a. hurt
b. killed
c. mortgaged
d. conquered
Discussion Question:
Why do you think Oedipus was so shocked?
Cell 4 – Jocasta Confirms
Illustration:
Quote:
“JOCASTA
So ran the story that is current still.”
Reading Comprehension Question:
What response did Jocasta give to Oedipus’ question:
Vocabulary Question:
So ran the story that is current still. Current nearly means
a. ancient
b. begot
c. laborious
d. present
Discussion Question:
Do you think Oedipus believes Jocasta’s response? Why or why not?
Cell 5 – Oedipus Asks
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
Where did this happen? Dost thou know the place?”
Summary:
Oedipus asks Jocasta where Laius died and if she knew the place.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What did Oedipus asks of Jocasta?
Vocabulary Question:
Where did this happen? Dost thou know the place? Thou nearly
means…
a. you
b. he
c. she
d. Chen
Discussion Question:
What will be the response of Jocasta?
Cell 6 – Jocasta Answers
Illustration:
Quote:
“JOCASTA
Phocis the land is called; the spot is where
Branch roads from Delphi and from Daulis meet.”
Summary:
Jocasta responds by saying that Laius died in Phocis where the roads
Delphi and Daulis meet.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Where was Laius killed?
Vocabulary Question:
Phocis the land is called; the spot is where branch roads from Delphi
and from Daulis meet. Branch nearly means
a. branch (tree)
b. diverged
c. dead
d. converged
Discussion Question:
Do you think Oedipus knows the place called Phocis?
Cell 7 – Oedipus Asks Again
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
And how long is it since these things befell?”
Summary:
Oedipus asks Jocasta how long has it been since Laius died.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What did Oedipus asks Jocasta?
Vocabulary Question:
And how long is it since these things befell? Befell nearly means…
a. happened
b. deteriorated
c. fell
d. break
Discussion Question:
What do you think will be Jocasta’s response?
Cell 8 – Jocasta Recalls
Illustration:
Quote:
“JOCASTA
'Twas but a brief while were thou wast proclaimed
Our country's ruler that the news was brought.”
Summary:
Jocasta says that the news of Laius’ death was sent to Oedipus as
soon as he became the country’s ruler.
Reading Comprehension Question:
When did Laius die?
Vocabulary Question:
'Twas but a brief while were thou wast proclaimed Our country's ruler
that the news was brought. Proclaimed nearly means…
a. drowned
b. declared
c. domesticated
d. disowned
Discussion Question:
Why do you think Laius died as soon as Oedipus was declared the
country’s king?
Cell 9 – Oedipus Asks God
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
O Zeus, what hast thou willed to do with me!”
Summary:
Oedipus asks what Zeus wanted to do with him.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What does Oedipus say?
Vocabulary Question:
O Zeus, what hast thou willed to do with me! Zeus in Greek mythology
is
a. a god
b. a diviner
c. a prostitute
d. an underachiever
Discussion Question:
What do you think Zeus wanted to do with Oedipus?
Cell 10 – Jocasta Is Concerned
Illustration:
Quote:
“JOCASTA
What is it, Oedipus, that moves thee so?”
Summary:
Jocasta asks Oedipus what made him so emotional.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What did Jocasta ask of Oedipus?
Vocabulary Question:
What is it, Oedipus, that moves thee so? Moves nearly means…
a. transports
b. causes (to be emotional)
c. travels
d. writes
Discussion Question:
Why do you think Oedipus is so emotional?
Cell 11 – Oedipus In Search of Evidence
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
Ask me not yet; tell me the build and height
Of Laius? Was he still in manhood's prime?”
Summary:
Oedipus asks Jacosta not to question his feelings, but answer his
question about the physical build of Laius.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What did Oedipus tell Jacosta not to do?
Vocabulary Question:
Ask me not yet; tell me the build and height Of Laius? Was he still in
manhood’s prime? Prime nearly means…
a. hopes
b. years
c. today
d. here
Discussion Question:
Do you think Jacosta will comply? Give your reason.
Cell 12 – Jocasta Describes Laius
Illustration:
Quote:
“JOCASTA
Tall was he, and his hair was lightly strewn
With silver; and not unlike thee in form.”
Summary:
Jacosta tells Oedipus that Laius was tall and his hair was silvery. Laius
look quite like Oedipus.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Give a physical description of Laius.
Vocabulary Question:
Tall was he, and his hair was lightly strewn With silver; and not unlike
thee in form. Strewn nearly means…
a. covered
b. scattered
c. colored
d. dotted
Discussion Question:
What do you think will be Oedipus’ reaction? Do you think Oedipus
knows Laius?
Cell 13 – Oedipus Regrets
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
O woe is me! Methinks unwittingly
I laid but now a dread curse on myself.”
Summary:
He feels sorry for himself that he had set a terrible curse on himself
with out him knowing.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Why does Oedipus feel sorry for himself?
Vocabulary Question:
O woe is me! Methinks unwittingly I laid but now a dread curse on
myself. Unwittingly nearly means…
a. undeniably
b. unintentionally
c. purposely
d. knowingly
Discussion Question:
What do you think the curse is?
Cell 14 – Jocasta Asks
Illustration:
Quote:
“JOCASTA
What say'st thou? When I look upon thee, my king,
I tremble.”
Summary:
Jocasta asks Oedipus to repeat what he had said and states that she
looks upon Oedipus with some fear.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What is the feeling of Oedipus right now?
Vocabulary Question:
What say'st thou? When I look upon thee, my king, I tremble.
Tremble nearly means…
a. shake
b. shiver
c. fear
d. die
Discussion Question:
Do you think that Jocasta will still tremble when she sees Oedipus?
Why or why not?
Cell 15 – Oedipus Wants Confirmation
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
'Tis a dread presentiment
That in the end the seer will prove not blind.
One further question to resolve my doubt.”
Summary:
Oedipus states that he had a horrible feeling that the predictor of
fortunes may be correct in his predictions. He requests Jocasta to
allow him to ask one more question.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Who is a seer?
Vocabulary Question:
'Tis a dread presentiment That in the end the seer will prove
not blind. One further question to resolve my doubt. Presentiment and
seer nearly means…
a. feeling … sage
b. horror … a predictor
c. feeling … predictor
d. thought … man
Discussion Question:
Why do you think Oedipus feels horrible?
Cell 16 – Jocasta Reassures
Illustration:
Quote:
“JOCASTA
I quail; but ask, and I will answer all.”
Summary:
Jocasta says she is in fear, but she will answer all of Oedipus’
questions.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What is the feeling of Jocasta right not?
Vocabulary Question:
I quail; but ask, and I will answer all. Quail nearly means…
a. bird
b. fear
c. love
d. horror
Discussion Question:
What do you think the next question that Oedipus will ask?
Cell 17 – Oedipus’ Anxiety
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
Had he but few attendants or a train
Of armed retainers with him, like a prince?”
Summary:
Oedipus asks Jocasta if Laius had only few people or a group of
attendants at his service.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What did Oedipus ask of Jocasta?
Vocabulary Question:
Had he but few attendants or a train Of armed retainer with him, like a
prince? Retainer nearly means
a. independent servant
b. dependent soldier
c. paid slave
d. group of servants
Discussion Question:
Why do you think Oedipus ask I Laius was well attended?
Cell 18 – The Moment of Truth
Illustration:
Quote:
“JOCASTA
They were but five in all, and one of them
A herald; Laius in a mule-car rode.”
Summary:
Jocasta states that there are five servants in all and one of them is a
messenger riding in a mule-pulled car.
Reading Comprehension Question:
How many servants attend Laius?
Vocabulary Question:
They were but five in all, and one of them A herald; Laius in a mulecar rode. Herald nearly means…
a. servant
b. slave
c. attendant
d. messenger
Discussion Question:
How is the number of servants surrounding Laius relevant to his
death?
Cell 19 – Who is that messenger?
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
Alas! 'tis clear as noonday now. But say,
Lady, who carried this report to Thebes?
Summary:
Oedipus says that it is noon and asks Jocasta who carried the news to
Thebes.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What time is it?
Vocabulary Question:
Alas! 'tis clear as noonday now. But say, Lady, who carried this report
to Thebes? Report nearly means…
a. news
b. discovery
c. propaganda
d. revolution
Discussion Question:
Will Oedipus invite Jocasta to lunch? Why or why not?
Cell 20 – Heroic Serf
Illustration:
Quote:
“JOCASTA
A serf, the sole survivor who returned.”
Summary:
Jocasta replies that a serf was the only one that survived the killing of
Laius and return to Thebes.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Who survived the massacre in Phocis?
Vocabulary Question:
A serf, the sole survivor who returned. Sole nearly means…
a. only
b. tortured
c. sexually aroused
d. killer
Discussion Question:
How do you think the serf survived the attack?
Cell 21 – Oedipus Pinpointing the Location of the Serf
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
Haply he is at hand or in the house?”
Summary:
Oedipus asks where the serf is.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What did Oedipus ask of Jocasta?
Vocabulary Question:
Haply he is at hand or in the house? Haply nearly means…
a. maybe
b. fortunately
c. lovely
d. unfortunately
Discussion Question:
What do you think Oedipus wants to do with the serf?
Cell 22 – Jocasta Recalls What the Serfs Did
Illustration:
Quote:
“JOCASTA
No, for as soon as he returned and found
Thee reigning in the stead of Laius slain,
He clasped my hand and supplicated me
To send him to the alps and pastures, where
He might be farthest from the sight of Thebes.
And so I sent him. 'Twas an honest slave
And well deserved some better recompense.”
Summary:
Jocasta replies that the as soon as the serf returned to Thebes and
found that Laius was killed and Oedipus reigned as king, the serf asked
Jocasta to send him into the mountains and the pastures so he could
be far away from Thebes. Jocasta complied and sent the serf as
requested.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Where did the serf wanted to be sent to?
Vocabulary Question:
'Twas an honest slave And well deserved some better recompense.
Recompense most nearly means…
a. reward
b. death
c. misfortune
d. love
Discussion Question:
What do you think the serf knows that makes Oedipus so interested in
questioning the serf?
Cell 23 – Oedipus Commands
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
Fetch him at once. I fain would see the man.”
Summary:
Oedipus commands Jocasta to bring the serf to him.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What did Oedipus tell Jocasta to do?
Vocabulary Question:
Fetch him at once. I fain would see the man. Fain nearly means…
a. sadly
b. happily
c. lovely
d. dangerously
Discussion Question:
Why would Oedipus be glad to see the serf? Is the serf a witness to a
crime?
Cell 24 – Jocasta Obeys
Illustration:
Quote:
“JOCASTA
He shall be brought; but wherefore summon him?”
Summary:
Jocasta says that she will bring the serf, but asks Oedipus why he
want to see him.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What is Jocasta’s response to Oedipus’ command?
Vocabulary Question:
He shall be brought; but wherefore summon him? Summon nearly
means…
a. send for
b. to gather
c. a call
d. a gathering
Discussion Question:
How will the serf react when Jocasta fetches the serf?
Cell 25 – Oedipus Wants Answers
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
Lady, I fear my tongue has overrun
Discretion; therefore I would question him.”
Summary:
Oedipus tells Jocasta that he fears that he has avoided good judgment
so he would question the serf.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What is Oedipus planning to do?
Vocabulary Question:
Lady, I fear my tongue has overrun Discretion; therefore I would
question him. Discretion nearly means…
a. good care
b. good judgment
c. good benefit
d. good day
Discussion Question:
Is the serf going to answer to Oedipus’ questions? Why or why not?
Cell 26 – Jocasta Agrees
Illustration:
Quote:
“JOCASTA
Well, he shall come, but may not I too claim
To share the burden of thy heart, my king?”
Summary:
Jocasta says she will bring the serf to him, but she also requests to
share the same responsibilities as Oedipus.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What does Jocasta claims?
Vocabulary Question:
Well, he shall come, but may not I too claim To share the burden of
thy heart, my king? Burden nearly means…
a. problems
b. responsibilities
c. care
d. love
Discussion Question:
Why does Jocasta want to share the responsibilities as Oedipus?
Cell 27 – Oedipus Recalls His Journey
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
And thou shalt not be frustrate of thy wish.
Now my imaginings have gone so far.
Who has a higher claim that thou to hear
My tale of dire adventures? Listen then.
My sire was Polybus of Corinth, and
My mother Merope, a Dorian;
And I was held the foremost citizen,
Till a strange thing befell me, strange indeed,
Yet scarce deserving all the heat it stirred.
A roisterer at some banquet, flown with wine,
Shouted "Thou art not true son of thy sire."
It irked me, but I stomached for the nonce
The insult; on the morrow I sought out
My mother and my sire and questioned them.
They were indignant at the random slur
Cast on my parentage and did their best
To comfort me, but still the venomed barb
Rankled, for still the scandal spread and grew.
So privily without their leave I went
To Delphi, and Apollo sent me back
Baulked of the knowledge that I came to seek.
But other grievous things he prophesied,
Woes, lamentations, mourning, portents dire;
To wit I should defile my mother's bed
And raise up seed too loathsome to behold,
And slay the father from whose loins I sprang.
Then, lady,--thou shalt hear the very truth-As I drew near the triple-branching roads,
A herald met me and a man who sat
In a car drawn by colts--as in thy tale-The man in front and the old man himself
Threatened to thrust me rudely from the path,
Then jostled by the charioteer in wrath
I struck him, and the old man, seeing this,
Watched till I passed and from his car brought down
Full on my head the double-pointed goad.
Yet was I quits with him and more; one stroke
Of my good staff sufficed to fling him clean
Out of the chariot seat and laid him prone.
And so I slew them every one. But if
Betwixt this stranger there was aught in common
With Laius, who more miserable than I,
What mortal could you find more god-abhorred?
Wretch whom no sojourner, no citizen
May harbor or address, whom all are bound
To harry from their homes. And this same curse
Was laid on me, and laid by none but me.
Yea with these hands all gory I pollute
The bed of him I slew. Say, am I vile?
Am I not utterly unclean, a wretch
Doomed to be banished, and in banishment
Forgo the sight of all my dearest ones,
And never tread again my native earth;
Or else to wed my mother and slay my sire,
Polybus, who begat me and upreared?
If one should say, this is the handiwork
Of some inhuman power, who could blame
His judgment? But, ye pure and awful gods,
Forbid, forbid that I should see that day!
May I be blotted out from living men
Ere such a plague spot set on me its brand!”
Summary:
Oedipus states that he would allow Jocasta to do what she wishes, but
he wants to tell her the story of dreadful adventure he experienced. He
tells her that since his father was Polybus of Corinth and his mother
was Merope, who was a Dorian, he was the most important citizen of
the city. However, Oedipus states that at a party, someone with wine
yelled that Oedipus was not the true son of Polybus, irritating him.
Oedipus says that the next day, he went to question his father and
mother, who were upset about the random insult thrown at then and
tried their best to comfort Oedipus, but to no avail as the scandal
spread. Oedipus declares that he went to Delphi to ask Apollo of what
he wanted to know, but Apollo refused and only told him that
tragedies awaited Oedipus and one day he would kill his father, defile
his mother’s bed, and raise children too horrible to look at. Oedipus
states when he was walking to the branching roads, he met and killed
a herald and an old man. Oedipus tells Jocasta that there are
similarities between Laius and the stranger. Oedipus tells Jocasta that
he laid his own curse on himself. Oedipus concluded that he was
doomed to be banished, and lose sight of all his dearest people and his
native lands. Oedipus asks what power could have laid such horrible
tragedies upon him.
Reading Comprehension Question:
When was Oedipus humiliated?
Where did the accident happen?
How was the old man and the herald killed?
What was the curse laid upon Oedipus?
Whom did Oedipus seek out?
Vocabulary Question:
Betwixt this stranger there was aught in common With Laius, who
more miserable than I, What mortal could you find more godabhorred? Betwixt nearly means…
a. with
b. between
c. and
d. unfortunately
Discussion Question:
Do you think the person killed at the triple-branching road was Laius?
Why or why not?
Cell 28 – People Are Hopeful
Illustration:
Quote:
“CHORUS
We too, O king, are troubled; but till thou
Hast questioned the survivor, still hope on.”
Summary:
The people at his sides are troubled by the news, but they hope that
the serf would refute Oedipus’ ideas that he killed Laius.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Who is the survivor?
Vocabulary Question:
We too, O king, are troubled; but till thou Hast questioned the
survivor, still hope on. Troubled nearly means…
a. feeling uneasy
b. bothered
c. fasted
d. hacked
Discussion Question:
What do the people want to hear from the survivor’s mouth?
Cell 29 – Oedipus’ Hopes
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
My hope is faint, but still enough survives
To bid me bide the coming of this herd.”
Summary:
Oedipus states that he has just enough faint hopes to question the
serf.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Does Oedipus still have hope?
Vocabulary Question:
My hope is faint, but still enough survives To bid me bide the coming
of this herd. Bide nearly means…
a. remain
b. examine
c. hurt
d. here
Discussion Question:
Do you think Oedipus hopes for the same answers from the serf as the
people do? Why or why not?
Cell 30 – Jocasta Questions
Illustration:
Quote:
“JOCASTA
Suppose him here, what wouldst thou learn of him?”
Summary:
Jocasta asks Oedipus what he wants to learn from the serf.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What did Jocasta ask of Oedipus?
Vocabulary Question:
Suppose him here, what wouldst thou learn of him? Learn nearly
means…
a. gain knowledge
b. gain problems
c. gain headache
d. gain nothing
Discussion Question:
What does Jocasta expect as a response from Oedipus?
Cell 31 – Oedipus Answers
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
I'll tell thee, lady; if his tale agrees
With thine, I shall have 'scaped calamity.”
Summary:
Oedipus tells Jocasta that if the serf agrees with Jocasta’s story, then
he would have escaped the disaster.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What does Oedipus want so he could escape calamity?
Vocabulary Question:
I'll tell thee, lady; if his tale agrees With thine, I shall have 'scaped
calamity. Calamity nearly means…
a. disaster
b. blessing
c. thing
d. injury
Discussion Question:
How would it prove that Oedipus is not guilty if Jocasta’s story and the
serf were the same?
Cell 32 – Jocasta Asks Again
Illustration:
Quote:
“JOCASTA
And what of special import did I say?”
Summary:
Jocasta asks Oedipus what she said that was especially important.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What was Jocasta’s question?
Vocabulary Question:
And what of special import did I say? Import nearly means…
a. bring in goods
b. kick out goods
c. news
d. problems
Discussion Question:
What do you think was especially important?
Cell 33 – Oedipus Reasons
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
In thy report of what the herdsman said
Laius was slain by robbers; now if he
Still speaks of robbers, not a robber, I
Slew him not; "one" with "many" cannot square.
But if he says one lonely wayfarer,
The last link wanting to my guilt is forged.”
Summary:
Oedipus tells Jocasta that if the herdsman says that Laius was skilled
by many robbers and not one lonely man, than his guilt is cleansed;
however, if one lonely man killed Laius, then Oedipus would be guilty.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What is Oedipus reasons for questioning the herdsman?
Vocabulary Question:
But if he says one lonely wayfarer, The last link wanting to my guilt is
forged. Wayfarer nearly means…
a. traveler
b. bandit
c. robber
d. pirate
Discussion Question:
Do you think the herdsman will prove Oedipus guilty beyond all doubt?
Cell 34 – Reasoning
Illustration:
Quote:
“JOCASTA
Well, rest assured, his tale ran thus at first,
Nor can he now retract what then he said;
Not I alone but all our townsfolk heard it.
E'en should he vary somewhat in his story,
He cannot make the death of Laius
In any wise jump with the oracle.
For Loxias said expressly he was doomed
To die by my child's hand, but he, poor babe,
He shed no blood, but perished first himself.
So much for divination. Henceforth I
Will look for signs neither to right nor left.
OEDIPUS
Thou reasonest well. Still I would have thee send
And fetch the bondsman hither. See to it.
JOCASTA
That will I straightway. Come, let us within.
I would do nothing that my lord mislikes.
[Exeunt OEDIPUS and JOCASTA]”
Summary:
Jocasta reasons that what the herdsman first told the town could not
be changed except for minor changes, which could not possibly prove
Oedipus guilty. Oedipus says that she reasoned well and she should
see to it that the herdsman was fetched to him. Jocasta says she will
perform her tasks immediately and not make her lord angry.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What does Jocasta expect from the herdsman?
Vocabulary Question:
He shed no blood, but perished first himself. So much for divination.
Henceforth I Will look for signs neither to right nor left. Divination
nearly means…
a. prophecy
b. fact
c. danger
d. religion
Discussion Question:
Do you think Jocasta has reasoned well? Give some examples.
Cell 35 – The Chorus Sings
Illustration:
Quote:
“CHORUS
(Str. 1)
My lot be still to lead
The life of innocence and fly
Irreverence in word or deed,
To follow still those laws ordained on high
Whose birthplace is the bright ethereal sky
No mortal birth they own,
Olympus their progenitor alone:
Ne'er shall they slumber in oblivion cold,
The god in them is strong and grows not old.
(Ant. 1)
Of insolence is bred
The tyrant; insolence full blown,
With empty riches surfeited,
Scales the precipitous height and grasps the throne.
Then topples o'er and lies in ruin prone;
No foothold on that dizzy steep.
But O may Heaven the true patriot keep
Who burns with emulous zeal to serve the State.
God is my help and hope, on him I wait.
(Str. 2)
But the proud sinner, or in word or deed,
That will not Justice heed,
Nor reverence the shrine
Of images divine,
Perdition seize his vain imaginings,
If, urged by greed profane,
He grasps at ill-got gain,
And lays an impious hand on holiest things.
Who when such deeds are done
Can hope heaven's bolts to shun?
If sin like this to honor can aspire,
Why dance I still and lead the sacred choir?
(Ant. 2)
No more I'll seek earth's central oracle,
Or Abae's hallowed cell,
Nor to Olympia bring
My votive offering.
If before all God's truth be not bade plain.
O Zeus, reveal thy might,
King, if thou'rt named aright
Omnipotent, all-seeing, as of old;
For Laius is forgot;
His weird, men heed it not;
Apollo is forsook and faith grows cold.”
Summary:
Innocent people were born from Olympus and faith in those people
grows stronger. They hope that god does not take Oedipus away.
However, some question that Oedipus’ history of wrongdoing that may
destroy him. People are looking up to gods as guides.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What is the chorus singing about?
Vocabulary Question:
No mortal birth they own, Olympus their progenitor alone: Ne'er shall
they slumber in oblivion cold, The god in them is strong and grows not
old. Progenitor nearly means…
a. self
b. problem
c. ancestor
d. action
Discussion Question:
What is the goal of the chorus singing the verses?
Cell 36 – Jocasta Returns
Illustration:
Quote:
“[Enter JOCASTA.]
JOCASTA
My lords, ye look amazed to see your queen
With wreaths and gifts of incense in her hands.
I had a mind to visit the high shrines,
For Oedipus is overwrought, alarmed
With terrors manifold. He will not use
His past experience, like a man of sense,
To judge the present need, but lends an ear
To any croaker if he augurs ill.
Since then my counsels naught avail, I turn
To thee, our present help in time of trouble,
Apollo, Lord Lycean, and to thee
My prayers and supplications here I bring.
Lighten us, lord, and cleanse us from this curse!
For now we all are cowed like mariners
Who see their helmsman dumbstruck in the storm.”
Summary:
Jocasta prays to the gods that the curse laid upon Oedipus be cleansed
and that she brought gifts as offerings. She says that Oedipus has
become deaf to reasoning and her advises did not have any effects.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Why is Jocasta offering gifts to the gods in the high shrines?
Vocabulary Question:
Since then my counsels naught avail, I turn To thee, our present help
in time of trouble, Apollo, Lord Lycean, and to thee My prayers and
supplications here I bring. Supplications nearly mean…
a. appeals
b. horrors
c. prayers
d. gifts
Discussion Question:
Do you think the gods will help Oedipus? Why or why not?
Cell 37 – Disastrous News
Illustration:
Quote:
“[Enter Corinthian MESSENGER.]
MESSENGER
My masters, tell me where the palace is
Of Oedipus; or better, where's the king.
CHORUS
Here is the palace and he bides within;
This is his queen the mother of his children.
MESSENGER
All happiness attend her and the house,
Blessed is her husband and her marriage-bed.
JOCASTA
My greetings to thee, stranger; thy fair words
Deserve a like response. But tell me why
Thou comest--what thy need or what thy news.
MESSENGER
Good for thy consort and the royal house.
JOCASTA
What may it be? Whose messenger art thou?
MESSENGER
The Isthmian commons have resolved to make
Thy husband king--so 'twas reported there.
JOCASTA
What! is not aged Polybus still king?
MESSENGER
No, verily; he's dead and in his grave.
JOCASTA
What! is he dead, the sire of Oedipus?
MESSENGER
If I speak falsely, may I die myself.
JOCASTA
Quick, maiden, bear these tidings to my lord.
Ye god-sent oracles, where stand ye now!
This is the man whom Oedipus long shunned,
In dread to prove his murderer; and now
He dies in nature's course, not by his hand.”
Summary:
A messenger come in and tells Jocasta that Polybus died of natural
causes and the Isthmians wants to make Oedipus king. Jocasta does
not initially believe the story, but the messenger promised that the
news is very true.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What news did a messenger bring from the Isthmians?
Vocabulary Question:
Good for thy consort and the royal house. Consort nearly means…
a. husband
b. partner
c. sister
d. mother
Discussion Question:
Do you think the natural death of Polybus clears Oedipus’ guilt? Why
or why not?
Cell 38 – Prelude
Illustration:
Quote:
“[Enter OEDIPUS.]
OEDIPUS
My wife, my queen, Jocasta, why hast thou
Summoned me from my palace?
JOCASTA
Hear this man,
And as thou hearest judge what has become
Of all those awe-inspiring oracles.
OEDIPUS
Who is this man, and what his news for me?
JOCASTA
He comes from Corinth and his message this:
Thy father Polybus hath passed away.
OEDIPUS
What? let me have it, stranger, from thy mouth.”
Summary:
Jocasta introduces the messenger to Oedipus and informs Oedipus that
Polybus is dead, shocking Oedipus.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What shocked Oedipus when he hears the news?
Vocabulary Question:
Hear this man, And as thou hearest judge what has become Of all
those awe-inspiring oracles. Oracles nearly mean…
a. bones
b. Scriptures
c. message
d. source of wisdom
Discussion Question:
Why does Oedipus want the messenger to say the news himself?
Cell 39 – Giving Proof
Illustration:
Quote:
“MESSENGER
If I must first make plain beyond a doubt
My message, know that Polybus is dead.
OEDIPUS
By treachery, or by sickness visited?
MESSENGER
One touch will send an old man to his rest.
OEDIPUS
So of some malady he died, poor man.
MESSENGER
Yes, having measured the full span of years.”
Summary:
The messenger says that Polybus died of disease after living for so
long.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What claimed Polybus?
Vocabulary Question:
So of some malady he died, poor man. Malady nearly means…
a. love
b. heart attack
c. sexual problems
d. diseases
Discussion Question:
To what extent did the news of Polybus’ death shock Oedipus?
Cell 40 –
Illustration:
Quote:
“OEDIPUS
Out on it, lady! why should one regard
The Pythian hearth or birds that scream i' the air?
Did they not point at me as doomed to slay
My father? but he's dead and in his grave
And here am I who ne'er unsheathed a sword;
Unless the longing for his absent son
Killed him and so _I_ slew him in a sense.
But, as they stand, the oracles are dead-Dust, ashes, nothing, dead as Polybus.
JOCASTA
Say, did not I foretell this long ago?
OEDIPUS
Thou didst: but I was misled by my fear.”
Summary:
Oedipus states that the oracle said he would kill his father, but the
useless oracle was wrong and he did not unsheathe his sword and take
his father’s life. Instead, disease claimed him. Jocasta says that she
had told him of this possibility and Oedipus confirms her statement
while saying that his fears led him in the wrong directions.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Was the oracle correct in its prediction in Oedipus’ eyes?
Vocabulary Question:
Say, did not I foretell this long ago?
In the quote above, foretell most nearly means
a. predict
b. make
c. say
d. hate
Discussion Question:
Who is truly correct, the oracle or Jocasta?
Cell 1 Oedipus Rex Part 1/5
Illustrations:
Oedipus
Quotes:
JOCASTA
Why should a mortal man, the sport of chance,
With no assured foreknowledge, be afraid?
Best live a careless life from hand to mouth.
This wedlock with thy mother fear not thou.
How oft it chances that in dreams a man
Has wed his mother! He who least regards
Such brainsick phantasies lives most at ease.
Summary:
Jocasta asks how a man can live so peacefully after he
knows he has married his mother. That is this an extreme
and rare case.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What does Jocasta ask Oedipus?
Vocabulary Question:
“This wedlock with thy mother fear not thou.”
In the quotes above the word wedlock most closely means?
A.) howitzer
B.) connubiality
C.) sandbag
D.) incarcerate
Discussion Question:
How do you feel about marrying your own mother?
Cell 2 Oedipus Rex Part 1/5
Illustration:
Oedipus
Messenger
Quotes:
MESSENGER
And what of her can cause you any fear?
OEDIPUS
Aye, 'tis no secret. Loxias once foretold
That I should mate with mine own mother, and shed
With my own hands the blood of my own sire.
Hence Corinth was for many a year to me
A home distant; and I trove abroad,
But missed the sweetest sight, my parents' face.
Summary:
A messenger arrives and overhears the conversations
between them and asks to hear the story, Oedipus
tells him how Loxias foretold his future and said that he would
marry his mother and have his father’s blood on his hands.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What did Oedipus answer to the messenger’s questions?
Vocabulary Question:
“and shed With my own hands the blood of my own sire.”
In the quote above the word sire most closely means?
A.) Mastermind
B.) Breed
C.) Father
D.) Form
Discussion Question:
Do you think that precognition could really happen in real life?
Cell 3 Oedipus Rex Part 1/5
Illustration:
Oedipus
Messenger
Quotes:
MESSENGER
Since Polybus was naught to thee in blood.
OEDIPUS
What say'st thou? was not Polybus my sire?
MESSENGER
As much thy sire as I am, and no more.
Summary:
The messenger tells Oedipus his reasons for not coming
home are stupid. And he assures him that King Polybus is not
his father and also that he is positive that the king has never
had any children before Oedipus.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What does the messenger say about King Polybus?
Vocabulary Questions:
“Since Polybus was naught to thee in blood.”
In the quote above the word naught most closely means?
A.)
B.)
C.)
D.)
Nothing
Useful
Pity
Judgement
Discussion Question:
What is your reaction if you cannot bear a child?
Cell 4 Oedipus Rex Part 1/5
Illustration:
Quotes:
MESSENGER
I found thee in Cithaeron's wooded glens.
OEDIPUS
What led thee to explore those upland glades?
MESSENGER
My business was to tend the mountain flocks.
Summary:
The messenger tells Oedipus that he obtained
him again as a child in the Cithaeron’s Wooden
Glades, and gave him to the king Polybus who loved
Him very much. He found him while he was tending
the mountain flocks.
Reading Comprehension Question:
How did King Polybus treat Oedipus as a child?
Vocabulary Question:
“I found thee in Cithaeron's wooded glens.”
In the quotes above the word glen most closely means?
A.)
B.)
C.)
D.)
Canyon
Flair
Blaze
Scintillation
Discussion Question:
Do you think it was right for him to take the child?
Cell 5 Oedipus Rex
Illustration:
Quotes:
MESSENGER:
I know not, the man from whom I had the may know more.
OEDIPUS:
What, did another find me, not thyself?
MESSENGER:
Not I; another shepherd gave thee me.
Summary:
The messengers tells Oedipus that he is the savior because
He released the braces from his feet. Oedipus asks
who braced his feet. The messenger says that the man who found him
knows. Oedipus questioned who found him.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Why is the messenger Oedipus’ savior?
Vocabulary Questions:
“Not I; another shepherd gave thee me.”
In the quotes above the word shepherd most closely means?
A.) Assumptionist behind docks
B.) Predicant of sanctuary box
C.)
D.)
Believer of shocks
Guardian of flocks
Discussion Question:
How will you feel if your ankles were spiked together and somebody
came by but simply ignored you?
Cell 6 Oedipus Rex Part 1/5
Illustration:
Quotes:
OEDIPUS:
Who was he? Would'st thou know again the man?
MESSENGER:
The same: he was a herdsman of the king.
Summary:
Oedipus asks who the man that found him was. The messenger says
he was the herdsman of the King, Laius. Oedipus asks him if is still
alive, the messenger said his countrymen must know that he is alive.
Oedipus got frustrated and he demanded to know who he was.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Who did the other herdsman work for?
Vocabulary Question:
“The same: he was a herdsman of the king.”
In the quotes above the word “herdsman” most closely means?
A.) Radical
B.) A breeder of another breed
C.) Eden
D.) Nobles
Discussion Question:
Will the conversation between these two, the messenger and Oedipus
end up reaching to a point of argument and violence?
Cell 7 Oedipus Rex Part 1/5
Illustration:
Quotes:
OEDIPUS:
Madam, dost know the man we sent to fetch? Is the same of whom
the stranger speaks?
JOCASTA:
Who is the man? What matter? Let it be. 'Twere waste of thought to
weigh such idle words.
OEDIPUS:
No, with such guiding clues I cannot fail To bring to light the secret of
my birth.
Summary:
Oedipus asks Jacosta If he knew the man the messenger was talking
about. Jocasta says that his quest for finding the secret of his birth is
foolish and a waste of time. Oedipus says if he puts the clues together
he could figure it out.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What does Jocasta say about Oedipus’ Quest?
Vocabulary Question:
“Who is the man? What matter? Let it be. 'Twere waste of thought to
weigh such idle words.”
In the quotes above the word “idle” most closely means?
A.)
B.)
C.)
D.)
worthless
important
abandoned
trustworthy
Discussion Question:
Was is it right for the author to hide the messenger’s name from
Oedipus? Did it bring about any important significance from the lines
that you have read?
Cell 8 Oedipus Rex Part 1/5
Illustration:
Quotes:
OEDIPUS:
…..
Thus sprung why should I fear to trace my birth? Nothing can make
me other than I am.
…….
methinks I see the herdsman who we long have sought;
Summary:
Oedipus is in deep frustration with himself and thinks of what his
parents may be like, he hopes his mother is true and fair, and believes
his father is an old herdsman even though he has not met them yet.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What does Oedipus think his father is?
Vocabulary Question:
“ Thus sprung why should I fear to trace my birth? Nothing can make
me other than I am.”
In the quotes above the word trace most closely means?
A.) discover, track
B.) footprint, stomp
C.) thumb mark, ink
D.) hierarchy, plutocracy
Discussion Question:
How will Oedipus’ parent(s) react with Oedipus’ arrival?
Cell 9 Oedipus Rex Part 1/5
Illustration:
Quotes:
OEDIPUS:
What were the pastures thou didst most frequent?
HERDSMAN:
Cithaeron and the neighboring alps.
OEDIPUS:
Then there Thou must have known yon man, at least by fame?
HERDSMAN:
Yon man? in what way? what man dost thou mean?
Summary:
The herdsman comes to Oedipus and is being questioned by Oedipus
about the times and the places he worked. He asks the herdsman if he
knows him, the herdsman says that he has never met him before. He
doesn’t know what he was talking about.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What did Oedipus ask the herdsman?
Vocabulary Question:
What were the pastures thou didst most frequent?
In the quotes above the word “pastures” most closely means?
A.) grass
B.) water
C.) ice
D.) sunlight
Discussion Question:
Was it right or wrong for Oedipus to just ask a herdsman to answer his
question?
Cell 10 Oedipus Rex Part 1/5
Illustration:
Quotes:
OEDIPUS:
Softly, old man, rebuke him not; thy words Are more deserving
chastisement than his.
HERDSMAN:
O best of masters, what is my offense?
OEDIPUS:
Not answering what he asks about the child.
Summary:
The herdsman gives no answer to Oedipus’ questions. Oedipus
becomes furious and curses him out. The herdsman asks why Oedipus
is treating him this way. Oedipus has the herdsman arrested because
he didn’t cooperate with them.
Reading Comprehension Question:
Who became furious to the herdsman and got him arrested?
Vocabulary Question:
“Softly, old man, rebuke him not; thy words Are more deserving
chastisement than his.”
In the quotes above the word “chastisement most closely means?
A.)
B.)
C.)
D.)
punishment
exploit
format
harassment
Discussion Question:
What can you say about Oedipus’ actions to the herdsman because he
did not cooperate well with his demands?
Was it right, wrong, sad or what?
cell # 1
Dialogue: MESSENGER Who may this woman be whom thus you fear?
OEDIPUS Merope, stranger, wife of Polybus.
MESSENGER And what of her can cause you any fear?
OEDIPUS A heaven-sent oracle of dread import.
Summary: Oedipus tells Jocasta about his fear of his "mother*s
marriage bed." Oedipus also talks about how Loxius foretold that he
should mate with his own mother.
Reading Comprehension: Who is Oedipus afraid of? And what?
Vocab. Question: Oracle is to prophecy as therapists is to
a.) massage
b.) advice
c.) commentary
d.) criticism
Discussion Question: If you were Oedipus would you be afraid to go
home?
Cell #2
Dialogue:
MESSENGER Lest through thy parents thou shouldst be accursed?
OEDIPUS This and none other is my constant dread.
MESSENGER Dost thou not know thy fears are baseless all?
OEDIPUS How baseless, if I am their very son?
Summary: The messenger is trying to convince Oedipus that his fears
are baseless and the fear of returning home is pointless.
Reading Comprehension: Is Polybus related to Oedipus by blood?
Vocab. Question: Alike is to similar as accursed is to
a.) spell
b.) bedevilled
c.) admirable
d.) neausiating
Discussion Question: Do you think Oedipus is being silly and should
just go home?
Cell # 3
Dialogue:
OEDIPUS Who did it? I adjure thee, tell me who Say, was it father,
mother?
MESSENGER I know not. The man from whom I had thee may know
more.
OEDIPUS What, did another find me, not thyself?
MESSENGER Not I; another shepherd gave thee me.
Summary: The messenger explains to Oedipus how he found him as a
child and gave him to Polybus.
Reading Comprehension: Did the Messenger actually find Oedipus?
Vocab. Question: left is to right as adjure is to
a.) solicit
b.) revoke
c.) implore
d.) casanova
Discussion Question: Should the messenger have told Oedipus the
truth about who found him or not?
Cell # 4
Dialogue:
JOCASTA Who is the man? What matter? Let it be. 'Twere waste of
thought to weigh such idle words.
OEDIPUS No, with such guiding clues I cannot fail To bring to light the
secret of my birth.
JOCASTA Oh, as thou carest for thy life, give o'er This quest. Enough
the anguish _I_ endure.
Summary: Oedipus argues with Jocasta that she has to help him figure
out the mystery of his birth.
Reading Comprehension: What does Oedipus need help from Jocasta
for?
Vocab. Question: Misery is to anguish as sullen is to
a.) bellicose
b.) bitter
c.) contentious
d.) cantankerous
Discussion Question: If you were Jocasta would you help Oedipus?
Cell # 5
Dialogue:
OEDIPUS Go, fetch me here the herd, and leave yon woman To glory
in her pride of ancestry.
JOCASTA O woe is thee, poor wretch! With that last word I leave thee,
henceforth silent evermore.
Summary: Oedipus discusses the importance of this situation with the
chorus. The chorus said that they recognized the man who found him
when he was a baby.
Reading Comprehension: What did Oedipus say to Anger the Queen?
Vocab. Question: Mediocre is to moderate as henceforth is to
a.) humdrum
b.) vanilla
c.) sequential
d.) revoke
Discussion Question: Who is being more selfish Oedipus or Jocasta?
Cell # 6
Dialogue:
OEDIPUS And now old man, look up and answer all I ask thee. Wast
thou once of Laius' house?
HERDSMAN I was, a thrall, not purchased but home-bred.
OEDIPUS What was thy business? how wast thou employed?
Summary: Oedipus interrogates the herdsman to find out if he is the
man he is searching for.
Reading Comprehension: What was the herdsman business at Lauis*
house?
Vocab. Question: Thrall is to serfdom as inhale is
a.) asphyxiate
b.) suffocate
c.) insufflate
d.) drain
Discussion Question: Do you think Oedipus is treating the herdsman
politely?
Cell # 7
Dialogue:
MESSENGER Friend, he that stands before thee was that child.
HERDSMAN A plague upon thee! Hold thy wanton tongue!
OEDIPUS Softly, old man, rebuke him not; thy words Are more
deserving chastisement than his.
HERDSMAN O best of masters, what is my offense?
OEDIPUS Not answering what he asks about the child.
Summary: The herdsman comments on a question instead of
answering which triggers an argument that ends up with the herdsman
getting arrested.
Reading Comprehension: What did the herdsman do that was so bad?
Vocab. Question: Crystal is to diamond as rebuke is to
a.) commend
b.) latticework
c.) extenuate
d.) reprimand
Discussion Question: Do you think the herdsman was out of line?
Cell #1
Oedipus arresting Herdsman/Shepard
Quote
Herdsman:
Alack, Alack!
What have I done? What wouldst thou further learn?
Summary: Oedipus is telling the man to arrest the Herdsman, to try to
get information from him. The shepherd asks him what he wants to
know.
Reading Comprehension:
Who is being arrested?
Vocab:
In the quote above, the word alack most closely means
a. sorrow
b. joy
c. guilt
d. hate
Discussion:
Why do you think the herdsman is being arrested?
Cell #2: Oedipus talking to Herdsman
Quote:
Oedipus
Didst give this man the child of whom he asks?
Herdsman
I did; and would that I had died that day!
Oedipus
And die thou shalt unless thou tell the truth
Herdsman
But, if I tell it, I am doubly lost.
Oedipus
The knave methinks will still prevaricate.
Summary: Oedipus asks if the shepherd gave the child that the man
was talking about. The shepherd said he did, and he died that day.
Oedipus asks him where he got the child. The herdsman tells him that
a man had given it to him.
Reading Comprehension:
Who is asked for the child?
Vocabulary:
In the quote above, the word prevaricate most closely means
a. lie, forswear
b. wait, snooze
c. sleep, count
d. talk, garble
Discussion:
Who do you think gave the Herdsman the child?
Cell #3: Origin of the child
Quote:
Herdsman
Well then- it was a child of Laius' house.
Oedipus: Slave-born or one of Laius' own race?
Herdsman
Ah me! I stand upon the perilous edge of speech.
Oedipus
And I of hearing, but I still must hear
Herdsman
Know then the child was by report his own,
But she within, thy consort best could tell,
Oedipus
What! she, she gave it thee?
Summary: The shepherd tells him that the child was from the palace
of Laius. That it was Oedipus’ wife who gave him the child to get rid of,
and that he was Laius’ child, but it must be his wife who can tell him
anything more.
Reading Comprehension:
Where was the child from?
In the quote above, the word perilous most closely means
a. dreadful
b. favorable
c. suitable
d. dangerous
Discussion:
What is his wife’s connection with the child?
Cell# 4 Truth
Quote :
Herdsman
Throught pity, master, for the babe. I thought
He’d take it to the country whence he camel
But he preserved it for the worst of woes.
For if thou art in sooth what this man saith,
God pity thee! thou wast to misery born
Oedipus
Ah me! ah me! all brought to pass, all true!
Oh light, may I behold thee nevermore!
I stand a wretch, in birth, in wedlock cursed,
A parricide, incestuously, triply cursed!
Summary: Oedipus finally comes to the realization of the truth. The
man told him that a man did not kill the baby. Instead he took him far
away. But unfortunately, the prophecy that he is going to kill his father
still came true. Upon knowing this, Oedipus began to damn his own
blood for the wrong doings he did.
Reading Comprehension:
What was the prophecy?
Vocabulary:
In the quote above, the word wedlock most closely means
a. marriage
b. death
c. love
d. heaven
Discusison:
How would you feel if you were in Oedipus' situation?
Cell 1
Second Messenger:
“…I will relate the unhappy lady’s woe,
When in her frenzy she had passed inside
The vestibule, she hurried straight to win
The bridal-chamber, clutching at her hair
With both her hands, and, once within the room
She shut the doors behind her with a crash.”
Summary
The second messenger enters and says that Queen Jocasta is dead.
The chorus asks who is responsible, and the messenger replies that
she killed herself. The messenger also says that although he has a
“poor memory” of the event, he will try to explain what happened.
Reading Comprehension: Who killed the Queen?
Vocabulary Question
Vestibule from the above quote most closely means
A. door of temple
B. bathroom in closet
C. entrance hall
D. cookie of doom
Discussion Question: Why did she kill herself? How would most women
have acted in her situation?
Cell 2
Second Messenger:
“’Laius,’ she cried, and called her husband dead
Long, long ago; her thought was of that child
By him begot, the son by whom the sire
Was murdered and the mother left to breed
With her own seed, a monstrous progeny.”
Summary
The second messenger explains Jocasta’s suicide. He says that she ran
into her bridal chamber, clutching her hair in a state of frenzy. She
then cursed the bed in which she conceived “husband by husband,
child by child.” Later, a very upset Oedipus, found her dead, hanging
by a noose around her neck.
Reading Comprehension: How did Jocasta kill herself?
Vocabulary Question
Progeny from the above quote most closely means
A. bird
B. offspring
C. marriage
D. disaster
Discussion Question: Do you think Oedipus was relieved when he
found her dead, or upset? What do you think he will do next?
Cell 3
Second Messenger:
“Such was the burden of his moan, whereto
Not once but oft, he struck with his hand uplift
His eyes, and at each stroke the ensanguined orbs
Bedewed his beard, not oozing drop by drop,
But one black gory downpour, thick as hail.”
The second messenger continues. He says that when Oedipus loosened
the noose and saw Jocasta’s dead body fall to the ground, he was so
overcome by grief that he took the brooches that held up her dress
and used them to gouge out his eyes. He says he does this so that his
eyes cannot view such awful things in the future. The messenger
describes Oedipus’s blood pouring down from his eyes like a downpour
of rain. He says that every bad thing that can be imagined has
happened to Oedipus, and that his family name is cursed.
Reading Comprehension: What does Oedipus do when he sees
Jocasta’s dead body fall?
Vocabulary Question
Bedewed from the above quote most closely means
A. cooled
B. heated
C. dried
D. moistened
Discussion Question: Is it possible for someone to find himself in
Oedipus’ situation in today’s society? Why or Why not?
Cell 4
Oedipus:
“Ah me! Ah woe is me!
And whither I am borne!
How like a ghost forlorn
My voice flits from me on the air!
On, on the demon goads. The end, ah where?
Chorus:
An end too dread to tell, too dark to see.”
The second messenger says that Oedipus, although he is weak and
has nobody to guide him, is about to flee the palace because he does
not want the rest of his family to be cursed like he is. Then Oedipus
enters, and the Chorus remarks that he is a woeful sight to look upon,
and although he wants to look at him and speak to him, he cannot
because he is “horror-struck.” Oedipus says that he feels like a forlorn
ghost and wishes there was an end in sight. The Chorus says that the
end is too dark and dreadful to talk about.
Reading Comprehension- Who is going to leave the palace?
Vocabulary Question
Flits from the above quote most closely means
A. darts
B. chases
C. falls
D. banana
Discussion Question: If you were a member of Oedipus’ family, how
would you feel about his decision to leave?
Cell 5
Chorus:
“No marvel if in such plight thou feel’st
The double weight of past and present woes.
Oedipus:
Ah friend, still loyal, constant still and kind,
Thou carest for the blind.
I know thee near, and though bereft of eyes,
Thy voice I recognize.
Chorus:
O doer of dread deeds, how couldst thou mar
Thy vision thus? What demon goaded thee?”
Oedipus says that he feels darkness wrapping itself around him, and
even in darkness he is pained by his memories. He is thankful to hear
the voice of the loyal Chorus, who asks who is responsible for what
happened. Oedipus explains that everything that happened is solely
his fault.
Reading Comprehension: Whom does Oedipus blame for killing his
father and marrying his mother?
Vocabulary Question
Bereft from the above quote most closely means
A. tired
B. deprived
C. housed
D. sickened
Discussion Question: Is Oedipus to blame for what happened? Could
he have done anything to prevent it?
Cell 6
Oedipus:
Say, friends, can any look or voice
Or touch of love henceforth my heart rejoice?
Haste, friends, no fond delay,
Take the twice cursed away
Far from all ken,
The man abhorred of gods, accursed of men.
Chorus:
O thy despair well suits thy desperate case.
Would I had never looked upon thy face!”
Summary
Oedipus says that he is hated by all of the gods and cursed by all the
men, and Chorus says that he wishes he had never looked upon
Oedipus’ terrible face. Oedipus goes on to say that he wished whoever
had saved him when he was a baby had left him chained and alone, as
it would have saved him and his family from a lot of grief. Chorus
agrees, and says that he would have been a lot better off dead than
blind.
Reading Comprehension: Is Oedipus glad that he was saved when he
was a child? Why or why not?
Vocabulary Question
Abhorred from the above quote most closely means
A. scared
B. loved
C. hated
D. tired
Discussion: If you found an orphan in chains, but you knew he would
have a miserable life if you saved him, what would you do?
Cell 7
Oedipus:
“No, such a sight could never bring me joy;
Nor this fair city with its battlements,
Its temples and the statues of its gods,
Sights from which I, now wretchedst of all,
Once ranked the foremost Theban on all Thebes,
By my own sentence am cut off, condemned,
By my own proclamation ‘gainst the wretch,
The miscreant by heaven itself declared
Unclean –and of the race of Laius.”
Summary
Oedipus says that even the sight of his children cannot give him joy,
because they were conceived in such a sinful way. He also cannot be
consoled by the city of Thebes that he used to rule, because now he
must leave. In an apostrophe he speaks to his home city of Corinth,
asking why it housed such a “canker” as himself, and asks wedlock
why it allowed him to mix the blood of fathers, brothers, wives and
mothers in such an incestuous way. He asks all the horrors under the
sun to hide him, kill him, or cast him down to the bottom of the ocean.
Reading Comprehension: Does seeing his children make Oedipus feel
better? Why or why not?
Vocabulary Question
Miscreant from the above quote most closely means
A. princess
B. edible object
C. evildoer
D. bastard
Discussion Question: Do you think Oedipus is sincere in his requests to
be killed and sent away? Why or why not?
Cell 8
Creon:
“Lo, here is Creon, the one man to grant
Thy prayer by action or advice, for he
Is left the State’s sole guardian in thy stead.
Oedipus:
Ah me! What words to accost him can I
find?
What cause has he to trust me? In the past
I have been proved his rancorous enemy.”
Summary
Creon enters and says that he will try to help Oedipus, because he is
now the King. Oedipus asks how Creon can trust him, as he was so
cruel to Creon before. Creon says that he is not angry at Oedipus, but
becomes angry at the bystanders because the events are private and
none of their business. Oedipus asks that Creon send him to a far
away desert, where no humans can contact him.
Reading Comprehension: Why does Creon get angry at the
bystanders?
Vocabulary Question
Rancorous from the above quote most closely means
A. ugly
B. annoying
C. crazy
D. spiteful
Discussion Question: Do you think Creon will send Oedipus away? Why
or why not?
Cell 9
Creon:
“This had I done already, but I deemed
It first behooved me to consult the god.
Oedipus:
His will was set forth fully –to destroy
The parricide, the scoundrel, and I am he.
Creon:
Yea, so he spake, but in our present plight
‘Twere better to consult the god anew.
Oedipus:
Dare ye inquire concerning such a wretch?
Creon:
Yea, for thyself wouldst credit now his word.”
Summary
Creon agrees that Oedipus must leave, but says he must first check
with the gods to see if that is the right decision. Oedipus then requests
that, because he is her brother, Creon give Jocasta a proper burial. He
asks Creon to not let him be a burden to Thebes, and to send him off
to the mountains, where he is sure he will be slain as his father was
slain. He tells Creon not to worry about his sons, but to pray for and
take care of his daughters. Just then, his two daughters, Antigone and
Ismene, enter. Oedipus, hearing their sobs, asks if it is indeed “his
darlings” that have come to visit him one last time.
Reading Comprehension: Who enters to see Oedipus?
Parricide from the above quote most closely means
A. killing of a banana
B. killing of a parent
C. killing of a dog
D. killing of a god
Discussion Question: If your father were in Oedipus’ condition, how
would you feel? How would you react?
Cell 10
Oedipus:
“’Their father slew his father, sowed the seed
Where he himself was gendered, and begat
These maidens at the source wherefrom he sprang,’
Such are the gibes that men will cast at you.
Who then will wed you? None, I ween, but ye
Must pine, poor maids, in single barrenness.
O Prince, Menoeceus’ son, to thee, I turn,
With the it rests to father them, for we
Their natural parents, both of us, are lost.”
Summary
Creon says that his two daughters have come, and that he requested
them to come because he knew it would make Oedipus feel better.
Oedipus thanks him, and wishes that fate is better to Creon than it
was to himself. He says he wishes Creon would hold his daughters,
and then tells them about the hardships they will encounter in life:
how they will return from feasts and festivals crying, and how no man
will marry them because of their shameful heritage. He says that no
man will wed them, and they will be left to pine for the rest of their
lives. He asks the gods not to let them wander, poor and unwed, and
tells his daughters that he hopes they will turn out better than he did.
Reading Comprehension: Is Oedipus optimistic about his daughters’
future?
Vocabulary Question
Begat from the above quote most closely means
A. ate
B. procreated
C. killed
D. tried
Discussion: Is it ethical for a person to discriminate against another,
based on the actions of their ancestors?
Cell 11
Creon:
Then they soon will grant thy plea.
Oedipus:
Lead me hence, then, I am willing.
Creon:
Come, but let thy children go.
Oedipus:
Rob me not if these children!
Creon:
Crave not mastery in all,
For the mastery that raised thee was thy bane and wrought thy
Fall.”
Summary
Creon says that it is time for Oedipus to stop crying and to leave.
Oedipus agrees, but on the condition that Creon exiles him. Creon
says that Oedipus can only asks the gods to fufill this request, but they
will do this quickly as they all hate him. Creon also says that Oedipus
may not take his daughters with him. As Oedipus exits, Chorus
recounts his fall, and how he went from the strong ruler who solved
the sphinx’s riddle, to the sorrowful, lonely man he is now.
Reading Comprehension: Is Oedipus going to leave, or did he finally
change his mind?
Vocabulary Question
Bane from the above quote most closely means
A. water
B. food
C. death
D. poison
Discussion: If you were banished from your home, where would you
go? How would you live?
Oedipus Rex, Exodos; Page 67
Cell 1
Quote:
Second Messenger
My tale is quickly told and quickly heard.
Our sovereign lady queen Jocasta’s dead.
Chorus
Alas, poor queen! How came she by her death?
Summary:
The second messenger enters the palace and tells all the elders of
Thebes, that the queen Jocasta has died. The chorus feels sorry for
her and asks how she died.
Reading Comprehension Question:
The second messenger tells all the elders of Thebes that someone has
died. Who died?
Vocabulary:
Our sovereign lady queen is dead.
A. healthy, as a peach
B. superior, as a mother
C. independent, as a country or king
D. exterior, as skin
Discussion Question:
How do you think the queen died?
Oedipus Rex, Exodos; Page 67
Cell 2
Quote:
Second Messenger
By her own hand. And all the horror of it,
Not having seen, yet cannot comprehend.
Nathless, as far as my poor memory serves,
I will relate the unhappy lady’s woe.
Summary:
The second messenger informs the elders that the queen killed herself.
He is preparing to tell them what happened or what he saw.
Reading comprehension question:
How did the queen die?
Vocabulary:
nathless, as far as my poor memory serves, I will relate the unhappy
lady’s woe.
A. nightly
B. nevertheless
C. nonesuch
D. notwithstanding
Discussion Question:
Why did the queen kill herself?
Oedipus Rex, Exodos;
Cell 3
Quote:
Second messenger
When in her frenzy she had passed inside
The vestibule, she hurried straight to win
The bridal-chamber, clutching at her hair
With both her hands, and, once within the room,
She shut the doors behind her with a crash.
Summary:
Second messenger starts telling the story of what he heard happened.
He says that she enters a room and locks herself in.
Reading comprehension question:
What did the queen do after she went into the room?
Vocabulary:
The vestibule, she hurried straight to win
A. entrance hall
B. enclosed passage
C. door
D. back yard
Discussion Question:
Does she kill herself in the room?
Oedius Rex, Exodos;
Cell 4
Quote:
Second Messenger
“Laius,” she cried, and called her husband dead
long, long ago; her thought was of that child
by him begot, the son by whom the sire
was murdered and the mother left to breed
with her own seed, a monstrous progeny.
Summary:
“Laius” was the husband of Jocasta who died a long time ago. She
cried out his name while she was in the room. She was left to take
care of their child.
Reading comprehension Question:
Who was “Laius”?
Vocabulary:
Her thought was of that child by him begot, the son by whom the sire
was murdered
A. produced, as a child
B. begged, as a quarter
C. badger, as a varmint
D. have, as a badge
Discussion Question:
Why did she cry out her dead husband’s name?
Oedipus Rex, Exodos;
Cell 5
Quote:
Then she bewailed the marriage bed whereon
Poor wretch, she had conceived a double brood,
Husband by husband, children by her child.
What happened after that I cannot tell,
Nor how the end befell, for with a shriek
Burst on us Oedipus; all eyes were fixed
On Oedipus, as up and down he strode,
Nor could we mark her agony to the end.
For stalking to and fro "A sword!" he cried,
"Where is the wife, no wife, the teeming womb
That bore a double harvest, me and mine?"
And in his frenzy some supernal power
(No mortal, surely, none of us who watched him)
Guided his footsteps; with a terrible shriek,
As though one beckoned him, he crashed against
The folding doors, and from their staples forced
The wrenched bolts and hurled himself within.
Then we beheld the woman hanging there,
A running noose entwined about her neck.
But when he saw her, with a maddened roar
He loosed the cord; and when her wretched corpse
Lay stretched on earth, what followed--O 'twas dread!
He tore the golden brooches that upheld
Her queenly robes, upraised them high and smote
Full on his eye-balls, uttering words like these:
"No more shall ye behold such sights of woe,
Deeds I have suffered and myself have wrought;
Henceforward quenched in darkness shall ye see
Those ye should ne'er have seen; now blind to those
Whom, when I saw, I vainly yearned to know."
Such was the burden of his moan, whereto,
Not once but oft, he struck with his hand uplift
His eyes, and at each stroke the ensanguined orbs
Bedewed his beard, not oozing drop by drop,
But one black gory downpour, thick as hail.
Such evils, issuing from the double source,
Have whelmed them both, confounding man and wife.
Till now the storied fortune of this house
Was fortunate indeed; but from this day
Woe, lamentation, ruin, death, disgrace,
All ills that can be named, all, all are theirs.
Summary:
The second messenger continues with his story: after a few noises,
Oedipus bursts into the room. Then they saw the queen hanging by
her neck. Oedipus ran to her and cuts the ropes that where holding
her. Oedipus cries at the sight of the queen.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What happened when Oedipus burst into the room?
Vocabulary:
His eyes, and at each stroke the ensanguined orbs bedewed his beard,
not oozing drop by drop,
A. ruddy
B. bloody
C. optimistic
D. harpy
Discussion Question:
When he finds the queen dead, Oedipus says, “No more shall ye
behold such sights of woe, deeds I have suffered and myself have
wrought; henceforward quenched in darkness shall ye see those ye
should ne'er have seen; now blind to those whom, when I saw, I
vainly yearned to know." What do you think it means?
Oedipus Rex, Exodos;
Cell 6
Quote:
CHORUS
But hath he still no respite from his pain?
SECOND MESSENGER
He cries, "Unbar the doors and let all Thebes
Behold the slayer of his sire, his mother's--"
That shameful word my lips may not repeat.
He vows to fly self-banished from the land,
Nor stay to bring upon his house the curse
Himself had uttered; but he has no strength
Nor one to guide him, and his torture's more
Than man can suffer, as yourselves will see.
For lo, the palace portals are unbarred,
And soon ye shall behold a sight so sad
That he who must abhorred would pity it.
[Enter OEDIPUS blinded.]
CHORUS
Woeful sight! more woeful none
These sad eyes have looked upon.
Whence this madness? None can tell
Who did cast on thee his spell,
prowling all thy life around,
Leaping with a demon bound.
Hapless wretch! how can I brook
On thy misery to look?
Though to gaze on thee I yearn,
Much to question, much to learn,
Horror-struck away I turn.
OEDIPUS
Ah me! ah woe is me!
Ah whither am I borne!
How like a ghost forlorn
My voice flits from me on the air!
On, on the demon goads. The end, ah where?
CHORUS
An end too dread to tell, too dark to see.
OEDIPUS
(Str. 1)
Dark, dark! The horror of darkness, like a shroud,
Wraps me and bears me on through mist and cloud.
Ah me, ah me! What spasms athwart me shoot,
What pangs of agonizing memory?
CHORUS
No marvel if in such a plight thou feel'st
The double weight of past and present woes.
OEDIPUS
(Ant. 1)
Ah friend, still loyal, constant still and kind,
Thou carest for the blind.
I know thee near, and though bereft of eyes,
Thy voice I recognize.
CHORUS
O doer of dread deeds, how couldst thou mar
Thy vision thus? What demon goaded thee?
Summary:
The second messenger finished telling his story chorus is feeling bad
for him. second messenger says that he still mourns about it and is
know put under a curse. Then Oedipus enters blinded. Chorus is
surprised and ask what happened? Who did that to him?
Reading comprehension Question:
What did the Chorus say when they saw Oedipus?
Vocabulary:
sight! More
none these sad eyes have looked
upon.
A.
B.
C.
D.
sad
woeful
pitiful
wretched
Discussion Question:
Who do you think cursed Oedipus?
Oedipus Rex, Exodos;
Cell 7
Quote:
OEDIPUS
(Str. 2)
Apollo, friend, Apollo, he it was
That brought these ills to pass;
But the right hand that dealt the blow
Was mine, none other. How,
How, could I longer see when sight
Brought no delight?
CHORUS
Alas! 'tis as thou sayest.
OEDIPUS
Say, friends, can any look or voice
Or touch of love henceforth my heart rejoice?
Haste, friends, no fond delay,
Take the twice cursed away
Far from all ken,
The man abhorred of gods, accursed of men.
CHORUS
O thy despair well suits thy desperate case.
Would I had never looked upon thy face!
OEDIPUS
(Ant. 2)
My curse on him whoe'er unrived
The waif's fell fetters and my life revived!
He meant me well, yet had he left me there,
He had saved my friends and me a world of care.
CHORUS
I too had wished it so.
OEDIPUS
Then had I never come to shed
My father's blood nor climbed my mother's bed;
The monstrous offspring of a womb defiled,
Co-mate of him who gendered me, and child.
Was ever man before afflicted thus,
Like Oedipus.
CHORUS
I cannot say that thou hast counseled well,
For thou wert better dead than living blind.
OEDIPUS
What's done was well done. Thou canst never shake
My firm belief. A truce to argument.
For, had I sight, I know not with what eyes
I could have met my father in the shades,
Or my poor mother, since against the twain
I sinned, a sin no gallows could atone.
Aye, but, ye say, the sight of children joys
A parent's eyes. What, born as mine were born?
No, such a sight could never bring me joy;
Nor this fair city with its battlements,
Its temples and the statues of its gods,
Sights from which I, now wretchedst of all,
Once ranked the foremost Theban in all Thebes,
By my own sentence am cut off, condemned
By my own proclamation 'gainst the wretch,
The miscreant by heaven itself declared
Unclean--and of the race of Laius.
Thus branded as a felon by myself,
How had I dared to look you in the face?
Nay, had I known a way to choke the springs
Of hearing, I had never shrunk to make
A dungeon of this miserable frame,
Cut off from sight and hearing; for 'tis bliss
to bide in regions sorrow cannot reach.
Why didst thou harbor me, Cithaeron, why
Didst thou not take and slay me? Then I never
Had shown to men the secret of my birth.
O Polybus, O Corinth, O my home,
Home of my ancestors (so wast thou called)
How fair a nursling then I seemed, how foul
The canker that lay festering in the bud!
Now is the blight revealed of root and fruit.
Ye triple high-roads, and thou hidden glen,
Coppice, and pass where meet the three-branched ways,
Ye drank my blood, the life-blood these hands spilt,
My father's; do ye call to mind perchance
Those deeds of mine ye witnessed and the work
I wrought thereafter when I came to Thebes?
O fatal wedlock, thou didst give me birth,
And, having borne me, sowed again my seed,
Mingling the blood of fathers, brothers, children,
Brides, wives and mothers, an incestuous brood,
All horrors that are wrought beneath the sun,
Horrors so foul to name them were unmeet.
O, I adjure you, hide me anywhere
Far from this land, or slay me straight, or cast me
Down to the depths of ocean out of sight.
Come hither, deign to touch an abject wretch;
Draw near and fear not; I myself must bear
The load of guilt that none but I can share.
Summary:
Oedipus tells Chorus that Apollo was the person who cursed him.
Chorus believes that it would be better to die than to live blind.
Oedipus disagrees and says that not even the sight of his children’s
smile would make him joyful especially with all the battles in the city.
Oedipus says he is reborn to draw near and fear not.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What is Oedipus reborn to?
Vocabulary:
By my own proclamation 'gainst the
, the miscreant by
heaven itself declared unclean--and of the race of Laius.
A.
B.
C.
D.
miserable
happy
despised
wretch
Discussion Question:
If you where blinded, would you rather die or live blind?
Oedipus Rex, Exodos;
Cell 8
[Enter CREON.]
CREON
Lo, here is Creon, the one man to grant
Thy prayer by action or advice, for he
Is left the State's sole guardian in thy stead.
OEDIPUS
Ah me! what words to accost him can I find?
What cause has he to trust me? In the past
I have bee proved his rancorous enemy.
CREON
Not in derision, Oedipus, I come
Nor to upbraid thee with thy past misdeeds.
(To BYSTANDERS)
But shame upon you! if ye feel no sense
Of human decencies, at least revere
The Sun whose light beholds and nurtures all.
Leave not thus nakedly for all to gaze at
A horror neither earth nor rain from heaven
Nor light will suffer. Lead him straight within,
For it is seemly that a kinsman's woes
Be heard by kin and seen by kin alone.
OEDIPUS
O listen, since thy presence comes to me
A shock of glad surprise--so noble thou,
And I so vile--O grant me one small boon.
I ask it not on my behalf, but thine.
CREON
And what the favor thou wouldst crave of me?
OEDIPUS
Forth from thy borders thrust me with all speed;
Set me within some vasty desert where
No mortal voice shall greet me any more.
CREON
This had I done already, but I deemed
It first behooved me to consult the god.
OEDIPUS
His will was set forth fully--to destroy
The parricide, the scoundrel; and I am he.
CREON
Yea, so he spake, but in our present plight
'Twere better to consult the god anew.
OEDIPUS
Dare ye inquire concerning such a wretch?
CREON
Yea, for thyself wouldst credit now his word.
OEDIPUS
Aye, and on thee in all humility
I lay this charge: let her who lies within
Receive such burial as thou shalt ordain;
Such rites 'tis thine, as brother, to perform.
But for myself, O never let my Thebes,
The city of my sires, be doomed to bear
The burden of my presence while I live.
No, let me be a dweller on the hills,
On yonder mount Cithaeron, famed as mine,
My tomb predestined for me by my sire
And mother, while they lived, that I may die
Slain as they sought to slay me, when alive.
This much I know full surely, nor disease
Shall end my days, nor any common chance;
For I had ne'er been snatched from death, unless
I was predestined to some awful doom.
So be it. I reck not how Fate deals with me
But my unhappy children--for my sons
Be not concerned, O Creon, they are men,
And for themselves, where'er they be, can fend.
But for my daughters twain, poor innocent maids,
Who ever sat beside me at the board
Sharing my viands, drinking of my cup,
For them, I pray thee, care, and, if thou willst,
O might I feel their touch and make my moan.
Hear me, O prince, my noble-hearted prince!
Could I but blindly touch them with my hands
I'd think they still were mine, as when I saw.
[ANTIGONE and ISMENE are led in.]
What say I? can it be my pretty ones
Whose sobs I hear? Has Creon pitied me
And sent me my two darlings? Can this be?
CREON
'Tis true; 'twas I procured thee this delight,
Knowing the joy they were to thee of old.
Summary:
Creon, one man to grant the prayer with action or advice, enters the
scene. Oedipus and Creon are old enemies in which Creon always
reminds him of his bad deeds. Oedipus asks Creon one favor: to send
him where no mortal voice would greet him anymore. Creon says he
has to consult with the gods before he can grant such a wish so
Oedipus asks for his daughters taken care of as well. Creon sends
Oedipus’ daughters to him.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What does Oedipus wish for?
Vocabulary:
I was
A.
B.
C.
D.
to some awful doom.
decide
decree
predestine
foreordain
Discussion Question:
Why does Creon send Oedipus’ daughters to their father?
Oedipus Rex, Exodos;
Cell 9
Quote:
OEDIPUS
God speed thee! and as meed for bringing them
May Providence deal with thee kindlier
Than it has dealt with me! O children mine,
Where are ye? Let me clasp you with these hands,
A brother's hands, a father's; hands that made
Lack-luster sockets of his once bright eyes;
Hands of a man who blindly, recklessly,
Became your sire by her from whom he sprang.
Though I cannot behold you, I must weep
In thinking of the evil days to come,
The slights and wrongs that men will put upon you.
Where'er ye go to feast or festival,
No merrymaking will it prove for you,
But oft abashed in tears ye will return.
And when ye come to marriageable years,
Where's the bold wooers who will jeopardize
To take unto himself such disrepute
As to my children's children still must cling,
For what of infamy is lacking here?
"Their father slew his father, sowed the seed
Where he himself was gendered, and begat
These maidens at the source wherefrom he sprang."
Such are the gibes that men will cast at you.
Who then will wed you? None, I ween, but ye
Must pine, poor maids, in single barrenness.
O Prince, Menoeceus' son, to thee, I turn,
With the it rests to father them, for we
Their natural parents, both of us, are lost.
O leave them not to wander poor, unwed,
Thy kin, nor let them share my low estate.
O pity them so young, and but for thee
All destitute. Thy hand upon it, Prince.
To you, my children I had much to say,
Were ye but ripe to hear. Let this suffice:
Pray ye may find some home and live content,
And may your lot prove happier than your sire's.
Summary:
Oedipus thanks Creon for giving him his daughters. Oedipus tells his
daughters to pray for him and to find a home where they will be
happy.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What does Oedipus tell his daughters to do?
Vocabulary:
O pity them so young, and for thee all destitute.
A. Trying a quiz
B. Lacking means of survival
C. Forsaken by eyes
D. avoiding poverty
Discussion Question:
What would the last things you tell your children be?
Oedipus Rex, Exodos;
Cell 10
Quote:
CREON
Thou hast had enough of weeping; pass within.
OEDIPUS
I must obey,
Though 'tis grievous.
CREON
Weep not, everything must have its day.
OEDIPUS
Well I go, but on conditions.
CREON
What thy terms for going, say.
OEDIPUS
Send me from the land an exile.
CREON
Ask this of the gods, not me.
OEDIPUS
But I am the gods' abhorrence.
CREON
Then they soon will grant thy plea
Summary:
Creon tells Oedipus to stop crying. Oedipus says he will go but on the
terms of being sent to the land in exile. Creon says that question
should be asked to the gods? But Oedipus disagrees and thinks he
doesn’t have to because he is the god’s abhorrence. Because Oedipus
is the god’s abhorrence, Creon believes that they will soon grant it.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What where the conditions of Oedipus’ leaving?
Vocabulary:
But I am the gods’ abhorrence.
A. Detested object
B. Shuddering shake
C. Joyful praise
D. Disgusting rot
Discussion Question:
Will the gods grant him his wish?
Oedipus Rex, Exodos;
Cell 11
Quote:
OEDIPUS
Lead me hence, then, I am willing.
CREON
Come, but let thy children go.
OEDIPUS
Rob me not of these my children!
CREON
Crave not mastery in all,
For the mastery that raised thee was thy bane and wrought thy fall.
CHORUS
Look ye, countrymen and Thebans, this is Oedipus the great,
He who knew the Sphinx's riddle and was mightiest in our state.
Who of all our townsmen gazed not on his fame with envious eyes?
Now, in what a sea of troubles sunk and overwhelmed he lies!
Therefore wait to see life's ending ere thou count one mortal blest;
Wait till free from pain and sorrow he has gained his final rest.
Summary:
Oedipus wants to go but Creon says that he has to leave his children
behind. Creon says he has to. Chorus informs the people of Thebes
that the great Oedipus, who knew the Sphinx’s riddle and was
mightiest in their state, is now in the deapest of trouble and is waiting
for his day to come.
Reading Comprehension Question:
What does Creon inform the people of Thebes?
Vocabulary:
Who of all our townsmen gazed not on his fame with
A.
B.
C.
D.
discontent
askance
feverish
envious
Discussion Question:
Will Oedipus’ day come sooner or later?
eyes?