Tragic Mimesis in Literature
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Questions and Answers

What is Oedipus's tragic flaw that leads to his downfall?

  • Fear
  • Delusion
  • Hubris (correct)
  • Greed

Which character trait of Willy Loman highlights his struggles in Death of a Salesman?

  • Charisma
  • Delusion and self-deception (correct)
  • Ambition
  • Intelligence

How does the plot of Oedipus Rex primarily unfold?

  • Using flashbacks
  • With irony and suspense (correct)
  • In a fragmented, non-linear fashion
  • Through a straightforward narrative

What theme does Death of a Salesman primarily explore?

<p>The destructive nature of materialism (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What narrative style does Miller use in Death of a Salesman to reflect Willy's perception of reality?

<p>Fragmented and non-linear (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which element of tragedy does the chorus serve in Oedipus Rex?

<p>Foreshadowing and commentary (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What principle does Sophocles employ in Oedipus the King to balance themes?

<p>Principle of moderation (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Sophocles convey the tragic tone in Oedipus Rex?

<p>Using elevated language and poetic verse (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which character from Death of a Salesman represents extreme ambition and materialism?

<p>Willy Loman (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way does the spectacle element manifest in Death of a Salesman?

<p>With symbolic imagery and memory plays (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What theme is explored in both Oedipus the King and Death of a Salesman through the use of moderation?

<p>The importance of balance in life (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In Oedipus the King, what do Oedipus's actions demonstrate about the concept of human agency?

<p>That human choices can defy predestined outcomes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Miller's Death of a Salesman critique American society?

<p>By presenting a balanced critique of social values (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What ultimately leads to Oedipus's downfall in Oedipus the King?

<p>His excessive pride and curiosity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the Loman family dynamics does Death of a Salesman highlight?

<p>The significance of balance and moderation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What literary technique do both authors use to engage their audiences?

<p>Decorum in form and content (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What musical element contributes to the emotional resonance of 'Death of a Salesman'?

<p>Recurring flute motif (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In 'Oedipus Rex', what outcome does the audience experience through the unfolding tragedy?

<p>Cathartic release of emotions (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of Oedipus' character contributes to his role as a tragic hero?

<p>He possesses noble qualities and a fatal flaw (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a notable feature of the dialogue in 'Death of a Salesman'?

<p>Realistic and mundane (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Arthur Miller's portrayal of Willy Loman contribute to the play's tone?

<p>It is somber and melancholic, highlighting disillusionment (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of humor does Arthur Miller incorporate into 'Death of a Salesman'?

<p>Dark and uncomfortable irony (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What emotions does 'Oedipus Rex' evoke through its tragic resolution?

<p>Pity and fear (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the decorum in 'Oedipus the King' from that in 'Death of a Salesman'?

<p>Greek tragedy conventions versus modern naturalism (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What universal themes are explored in Oedipus the King?

<p>Fate, free will, and the consequences of hubris (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Sophocles employ poetic devices in Oedipus the King?

<p>Through enhancing the narrative with dramatic irony and tragic flaw (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What approach did both Sophocles and Miller take towards their works?

<p>They emphasized clarity and emotional impact. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Death of a Salesman challenge audiences to think critically about?

<p>The American Dream and societal conformity pressures (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Sophocles cater to his audience in 'Oedipus the King'?

<p>By using complex themes and sophisticated poetic techniques. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which poetic technique is prominently utilized in Death of a Salesman?

<p>Imagery and symbolic language (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which poetic meter did Sophocles utilize in 'Oedipus the King'?

<p>Iambic pentameter (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What moral lesson does Oedipus the King illustrate?

<p>The dangers of pride and the limits of human knowledge (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What structural element enhances the dramatic impact of 'Oedipus the King'?

<p>Clear divisions into acts and scenes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Oedipus the King allows it to transcend mere historical fact?

<p>Its exploration of psychological depths and moral dilemmas (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characterized Miller's writing style in 'Death of a Salesman'?

<p>Naturalistic prose and relatable characters (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did both playwrights allow their works to mature?

<p>Through careful revision and reflection. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way do both Oedipus the King and Death of a Salesman provide insights into human nature?

<p>By offering profound insights into morality, identity, and the meaning of life (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does dramatic irony play in Oedipus the King?

<p>It heightens the emotional impact of the story (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant aspect of Miller's commitment to artistic precision?

<p>Using symbolism and metaphor effectively. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which theme did both 'Oedipus the King' and 'Death of a Salesman' explore?

<p>Universal themes relating to the human condition. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of poetry does Sidney emphasize through the concept of mimesis?

<p>The ability of poetry to imitate reality while transcending it (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Sophocles elevate the myth of Oedipus in Oedipus the King?

<p>By employing poetic language and dramatic irony (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What technique does Miller use in Death of a Salesman to transcend a realistic depiction of life?

<p>Utilizing symbolism and metaphor (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is said about the use of verse in Oedipus the King?

<p>It serves to enhance the emotional impact and intellectual depth (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does Miller choose to write Death of a Salesman in prose?

<p>To create a naturalistic dialogue reflecting psychological and social realities (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the central themes explored in Death of a Salesman?

<p>The futility of dreams and the human condition (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In applying Sidney's definition of poetry, what element does both plays utilize to captivate audiences?

<p>A blend of poetic techniques and narrative strategies (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Catharsis

A release of strong emotions, usually sadness or fear, through art or literature, leaving the audience feeling cleansed and purified.

Decorum

The use of appropriate language, characters, and events for a specific genre, style, or situation. This technique allows for heightened realism and emotional impact.

Tragicomedy

A play that combines elements of both tragedy and comedy, often exploring serious themes with humor.

Realistic Dialogue

The use of everyday language and situations in a play to create a semblance of reality for the audience.

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Tragic Hero

A tragic hero embodies noble qualities but also possesses a fatal flaw that leads to their downfall. They evoke pity and fear in the audience due to their tragic fate.

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Elevated Language

In Oedipus the King, Sophocles utilizes formal, poetic language to highlight the solemnity and grandeur of the tragedy.

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Modern Decorum

Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman explores the tragic realities of the American Dream with a more naturalistic approach, using realistic dialogue and blending elements of tragedy and comedy.

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Tragic Decorum

In Oedipus the King, the play adheres to the conventions of Greek tragedy by maintaining a serious tone and focusing on the tragic hero's downfall.

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Mimesis (Imitation)

The idea that art imitates or reflects reality. In Oedipus Rex, Sophocles imitates the human condition through Oedipus's tragic journey. In Death of a Salesman, Miller imitates the lives of ordinary people like Willy Loman, reflecting the American Dream's impact.

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Tragedy

A genre of drama that explores the downfall of a noble character due to their tragic flaw. Oedipus Rex exemplifies this with Oedipus's hubris (excessive pride). Death of a Salesman portrays Willy's tragic flaw as his delusion, leading to his demise.

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Plot

The sequence of events in a play. Oedipus Rex has an intricate plot driven by irony and fate. Death of a Salesman uses a fragmented plot to showcase Willy's distorted perception of reality.

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Character

The individuals in a play. Oedipus Rex features Oedipus as a complex character with both heroic traits and a fatal flaw. Death of a Salesman portrays Willy Loman's multifaceted nature, including his vulnerabilities and aspirations.

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Thought

The underlying ideas and themes explored in a play. Oedipus Rex examines fate, free will, and divine justice. Death of a Salesman delves into the American Dream's influence, societal pressures, and the destructive nature of materialism.

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Diction

The language used in a play. Oedipus Rex employs elevated language and poetic verse, contributing to the play's tragic tone. Death of a Salesman uses realistic dialogue to capture everyday speech and reflect the characters' backgrounds.

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Spectacle

The visual elements of a play. Oedipus Rex emphasizes dramatic revelations and stagecraft for visual impact. Death of a Salesman utilizes memory plays and symbolic imagery for emotional depth.

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Song

Musical elements in a play. Oedipus Rex uses the chorus's songs to provide commentary and foreshadowing, enhancing the dramatic effect.

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Realistic portrayal of human condition

The play challenges typical ideas about what success and happiness look like, presenting a more realistic view of human life.

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Meticulous craftsmanship

Both playwrights were very careful in creating their plays, making sure every detail added to the meaning and emotional effect.

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Sophisticated Athenian audience

Sophocles aimed to please sophisticated Athenian audiences with his complex themes and use of poetry.

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Broader audience

Miller wrote for a more general audience, using everyday language and relatable characters to explore universal ideas.

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Poetic meters in Oedipus Rex

Sophocles used different poetic meters like iambic pentameter to create a musical rhythm in the play.

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Naturalistic style in Death of a Salesman

Miller chose a more realistic style using simple language to make the play feel natural and intimate.

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Work maturity through revision

Both playwrights revised their plays over time, making changes and improving them before their final versions were performed.

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Enduring masterpieces

Sophocles and Miller followed the advice of the Roman poet Horace, creating lasting works that audiences still love today.

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Horace's Moderation

The principle of balance between extremes, avoiding excessive pride or humility, fate or free will, and divine intervention or human agency.

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Oedipus's Hubris

Oedipus, the tragic hero in Oedipus the King, struggles with excessive pride and curiosity, leading to his downfall.

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Willy Loman's Excessive Ambition

In Death of a Salesman, Willy Loman's relentless pursuit of the American Dream is driven by excessive ambition and materialism, leading to his downfall.

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Fate and Free Will in Oedipus the King

The interplay of fate and free will in Oedipus the King, where the gods influence Oedipus's destiny, but his own choices ultimately determine his fate.

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Family Dynamics in Death of a Salesman

The Loman family dynamics in Death of a Salesman, where balance and moderation are crucial for healthy relationships.

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Balancing Realism and Fantasy in Death of a Salesman

In Death of a Salesman, the play blends realism and fantasy, tragedy and comedy, and hope and despair, creating a nuanced exploration of the American Dream.

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Social Commentary in Death of a Salesman

Miller's play presents a balanced critique of American society, avoiding excessive idealism or cynicism.

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Timeless and Enduring Qualities of Oedipus the King and Death of a Salesman

Both Oedipus the King and Death of a Salesman achieve timeless and enduring qualities by exploring profound themes and complex characters while maintaining a balance between emotional intensity and intellectual rigor.

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Poetic Language

Using poetic techniques, like imagery and rhythm, to enhance the emotional impact of a story.

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Transcending History

The ability of poetry to go beyond just retelling history and explore timeless human themes like love, loss, and purpose.

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Psychological Depth

Exploring the internal struggles and motivations of characters, often revealing deeper truths about human nature.

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Moral Instruction

The idea that great literature can teach us about morality, inspire us to act ethically, and encourage self-reflection.

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Dramatic Irony

When a story uses events or details that create dramatic tension by having the audience know something the characters don't.

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Tragic Flaw

A character's flaw or weakness that ultimately leads to their downfall in a tragedy.

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American Dream

The American Dream, seen as a societal expectation often leading to pressure and unhappiness, is explored in Death of a Salesman.

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Power of Poetry

Both plays use poetic techniques to show how stories can be more than just events and offer profound insights into human experiences.

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Mimesis in Poetry

The ability of poetry, according to Sidney, to mirror reality while exceeding it. Poetry goes beyond simple representation to offer deeper meaning, emotions, and philosophical questions.

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Imitation of Myth

Using a well-known story or myth as a basis for a play, but transforming it to explore broader themes.

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Transcendence of Reality

The use of language, imagery, and dramatic techniques to elevate a play beyond a simple retelling of a story, creating a more profound experience.

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Verse (Poetry)

Poetry using language that is structured, rhythmic, and often uses poetic devices like metaphors and similes. It creates a more formal and elevated tone.

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Prose (Writing)

Language used in everyday speech. It's less structured and more conversational.

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Verse vs. Prose: Sidney's Argument

Sidney's idea that while verse can enhance poetry, it's not essential for a work to be considered true poetry. Both verse and prose can effectively explore themes and evoke emotions.

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Imitation of Everyday Life

A play that imitates the daily life of ordinary people, showing the struggles and hopes of a specific social group.

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Transcendence in Everyday Life

The use of literary devices like symbolism, metaphor, and poetic dialogue to create a deeper level of meaning in a play, going beyond just the surface story.

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Study Notes

Mimesis (Imitation)

  • Sophocles' Oedipus Rex imitates the tragic human condition through Oedipus's pursuit of truth, leading to his downfall.
  • Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman portrays the American Dream's destructive power by mimicking ordinary lives like Willy Loman, highlighting their struggles.

Tragedy

  • Oedipus Rex: Represents tragedy through Oedipus's noble character and tragic flaw (hubris), leading to inevitable downfall.
  • Death of a Salesman: Willy Loman's tragic flaw (delusion and self-deception), though not of noble birth, leads to his demise, evoking pity and fear.

Six Elements of Tragedy

1. Plot

  • Oedipus Rex: A complex plot driven by irony and fate, with suspense and surprise.
  • Death of a Salesman: Miller's fragmented and non-linear plot captures Willy Loman's distorted perception of reality.

2. Character

  • Oedipus Rex: Oedipus possesses admirable qualities and a fatal flaw.
  • Death of a Salesman: Willy Loman is a multifaceted character, revealing vulnerabilities and aspirations.

3. Thought

  • Oedipus Rex: Explores themes of fate, free will, and divine justice.
  • Death of a Salesman: Delves into the American Dream, societal pressures, and the destructive nature of materialism.

4. Diction

  • Oedipus Rex: Elevated language and poetic verse create a tragic tone.
  • Death of a Salesman: Realistic dialogue captures everyday speech, reflecting characters' social and economic backgrounds.

5. Spectacle

  • Oedipus Rex: Dramatic revelations and stagecraft create powerful visual impact.
  • Death of a Salesman: Miller's use of memory plays and symbolic imagery strengthens the emotional impact.

6. Song

  • Oedipus Rex: Chorus's songs offer commentary and foreshadowing.
  • Death of a Salesman: Musical undertones (e.g., flute motif) contribute to emotional resonance.

Catharsis

  • Oedipus Rex: Audience experiences emotional release as Oedipus's tragic fate unfolds.
  • Death of a Salesman: The play's poignant portrayal evokes pity and fear, leading to a cathartic experience.

Decorum

  • Oedipus Rex: Sophocles skillfully employs decorum by adhering to Greek tragedy conventions, maintaining a dignified tone in the play.
  • Elevated Language: Formal and poetic language elevates the play's tone and highlights the tragedy.
  • Tragic Hero: Oedipus, despite his flaws, possesses admirable qualities and his downfall is both inevitable and moving.
  • Death of a Salesman: Miller uses a naturalistic style reflecting modern drama, creating a somber and melancholic tone.

Realistic Dialogue (Death of a Salesman)

  • Realistic Dialogue: The play's dialogue is realistic and mundane, reflecting everyday life.
  • Tragicomedy: Blends tragedy and comedy portraying the American Dream.
  • Social Commentary: The play critiques materialism, conformity, and the American Dream.

Horace's Moderation

  • Oedipus the King: The play balances extremes of hubris, humility, fate, free will, and divine intervention with human agency.
  • Tragic Hero: Oedipus demonstrates moderation finding acceptance of his fate, showing newfound humility, demonstrating wisdom.
  • Death of a Salesman: Explores the destructive power of excess in the American dream.
  • Family Dynamics: Shows importance of balance in relationships.
  • Social Commentary: Provides a balanced critique of American society.

Divine Intervention and Human Agency

  • Oedipus Rex: Explores the interplay between fate and free will, highlighting the influence of fate though choices are made.
  • Death of a Salesman: Illustrates the destructive power of societal expectations by showcasing Willy Loman's tragic figure.

Intellectual Stimulation and Emotional Catharsis

  • Oedipus Rex: The play invites deeper thought on fate, free will, and human suffering through poetic language and vivid imagery, while fostering empathy.
  • Death of a Salesman: Challenges audiences to think critically about the American Dream and prompts reflection on mortality, identity, and the meaning of life.

Applying Sidney's Distinction (Oedipus the King and Death of a Salesman)

  • Oedipus the King: Sophocles transcends historical events in Greek mythology, exploring universal themes (fate, free will, consequences of hubris).
  • Death of a Salesman: Miller applies poetic language, imagery, and dramatic structure to explore relatable themes of identity, family, and the pursuit of happiness.

Moral and Intellectual Exploration

  • Death of a Salesman: Challenges audiences to think about conformity, the American Dream, and the consequences of materialism.
  • Both Plays' Significance: Show the power of poetry to transcend historical and philosophical limits providing profound insights into the human condition.

Imitating Reality

  • Oedipus Rex: Transcends the initial myth exploring human nature, fate, and free will through symbolic language.
  • Death of a Salesman: Portrays ordinary human experience emphasizing realism and complexity.

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Explore the theme of mimesis in tragic literature with a focus on Sophocles' Oedipus Rex and Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman. This quiz examines how both works reflect the tragic human condition and the elements of tragedy that define their narratives.

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