Introduction to Literature and Composition 2
Instructor: Michael Thornton
February 5, 2010
Essay on Oedipus the King by Sophocles Name ______
In preparing to read Oedipus the King by Sophocles, the class talked about the definition of tragedy in drama several times. There are four or five characteristics that define the tragic hero, and in a reverse definition, Aristotle provides us with various scenarios that should not be thought of as tragic. (One definition is posted online on the class website; you can find some of this material in your textbook, pages 1129 and 1157; the rest should come from your notes.)
Now, let’s work backwards from an essay on Oedipus Rex: I would like you to write about the tragic elements in this play, but you have to come up with the questions.
· Brainstorm with a group of students questions to ask about the play.
· Make sure that you are asking for specific details in your questions – ask for quotes.
· Consider those how, when, what, where, when, why questions, but also look closely at what Aristotle suggested were the essential attributes of a tragedy.
· Write down three questions that focus on different attributes of a tragedy – these come from your group discussion, although each student is encouraged to improve on the questions that the group developed.
· Then write an essay, answering one of these. The essay should be at least two written pages.
To repeat, brainstorm and come up with a list of tragic elements that might serve as themes for an essay on Oedipus Rex: then (1) write three questions that pertain to these traits of tragedy, relative to Sophocles’ play; and (2) write an essay answering one of these questions. You must turn in the three questions, and an essay answering one of these. Make sure I know which question or prompt you are answering.
You will be assessed on how well your questions relate to dramatic tragedy, and how well your essay answers the question that you choose, including how well you back up your answer with quotes from the text. Your essay should focus on the events in the play, not the background story, or speculation on hypothetical situations.
You can use the back of this sheet for your brainstorming about tragic elements, and your questions.
Your questions and essay are due Tuesday, February 9, 2010.