A Level Classics - Theatre Modern Scholar Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What principle does laughter evoke according to Anthony Edwards?

Discussing taboo (correct)

History of theatre

Moral behavior

Public speaking

What does putrefaction represent in Peter Smith's view?

The necessary other of purification

What aspect of Oedipus does Friederich Holderman focus on?

Indescribable suffering

Who else suffers alongside Oedipus, according to Kitto?

Thebans and Jocasta Signup and view all the answers

What does Kitto say about Sophocles' view on reverence?

The need of reverence Signup and view all the answers

OTK is considered the most secular of Sophoclean tragedies.

False Signup and view all the answers

What transformation occurs in OTK regarding the revealer?

Turns into the thing revealed Signup and view all the answers

What traditional religious view does OTK assert according to Knox?

Man is ignorant and knowledge belongs to the gods Signup and view all the answers

How does Knox describe Oedipus' dedication to truth?

A heroic example Signup and view all the answers

What qualities of Oedipus make him representative of the Athenian character?

Democratic and civic-minded Signup and view all the answers

How does Knox characterize Oedipus' temperament?

Endowed with prized talents Signup and view all the answers

What does Michael O'Hear identify as Oedipus' culpability?

Recklessness Signup and view all the answers

What should Oedipus have achieved according to Cedric Whitman?

Success Signup and view all the answers

What is the nature of Oedipus' will to action?

Never fails Signup and view all the answers

How is Oedipus characterized in terms of his personality?

Flawed character Signup and view all the answers

How is Oedipus' fate portrayed as a result of his actions?

Direct result of his actions Signup and view all the answers

What message does OTK convey about submission to the divine?

A necessity for piety Signup and view all the answers

What makes Oedipus a tragic hero according to Myron Magnet?

Acceptance of responsibility Signup and view all the answers

The fact that gods and men don't communicate easily is a fundamental problem of...

the play. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Key Concepts in Oedipus Rex and Greek Comedy

Laughter and Taboo: Comedy often arises from the transgression of societal norms, producing laughter as a form of catharsis (Anthony Edwards).
Putrefaction vs. Purification: Toilet humor serves a liberating role in Greek comedy, representing the freedom that comes from confronting societal taboos (Peter Smith).
Oedipus' Suffering: Oedipus is characterized by immense, indescribable suffering, showcasing the theme of divine punishment and fate (Friederich Holderman).
Collective Suffering in Thebes: While Oedipus endures great suffering, Thebans and other characters like Jocasta also experience hardship, highlighting a broader tragedy (Kitto).
Reverence and Piety: Sophocles emphasizes the importance of reverence for the divine, underscoring the need for characters to show respect to the gods (Kitto).
Secular Perspectives on Tragedy: Oedipus the King is mistakenly regarded as a secular tragedy, though it strongly conveys themes of divine punishment and the consequences of hubris (Knox).
Revelatory Drama: The act of revelation in Oedipus' quest for truth leads to tragic outcomes, as the pursuer becomes consumed by the knowledge he seeks (Knox).
Hubris and Ignorance: The play asserts that human knowledge is limited, with the gods retaining ultimate authority and knowledge, resulting in Oedipus' tragic downfall (Knox).
Dedication to Truth: Oedipus exemplifies a noble pursuit of truth for the welfare of his state, representing Athenian ideals of leadership (Knox).
Epitome of Athenian Character: Oedipus embodies qualities admired by the Athenian audience, including democracy and dedication to civic duty (Knox).
Admirable Traits: His diplomatic actions, like allowing Creon to speak on behalf of Thebes, showcase his commendable character (Knox).
Recklessness Defined: Oedipus' downfall may stem from recklessness, characterized by a conscious choice to act despite significant risks (Michael O'Hear).
Cruelty of Fate: Despite his noble characteristics, Oedipus is a victim of fate, emphasizing the tragic irony of punishment for an undeserving character (Cedric Whitman).
Will to Action: Oedipus' determination to protect his citizens and seek the truth underscores his heroic qualities (Knox).
Flawed Character: Oedipus' character flaws—hubris, paranoia, and intense emotions—contribute to his tragic downfall (Dover).
Justice and Divine Will: The consequences of Oedipus' actions suggest a complex relationship between human agency and divine justice (Lauren Silberman).
Submission to the Divine: The play teaches the importance of submission to the will of the gods, a central tenet of Greek thought (Freud).
Tragic Heroism: Oedipus' acceptance of responsibility for his actions enhances his status as a tragic hero, embodying a struggle between his nobility and flaws (Myron Magnet).

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Test your knowledge of key concepts and definitions in modern theatre through flashcards. This quiz covers important terms and their interpretations, ideal for A Level Classics students. Explore how comedy intersects with themes like catharsis and purification.