Lecture on Sophocles and Greek Tragedy

These flashcards cover key concepts, characters, and themes from the lecture on Sophocles and Greek tragedy, focusing primarily on Oedipus Rex.

Who is Sophocles?

A famous playwright born in 496 BC, known for establishing a formula for Greek tragedy and writing approximately 120 plays, including Oedipus Rex and Antigone.

What is the significance of Ancient Greek Tragedy?

Greek tragedy originated in classical Athens in the 6th century BCE, influenced by epic poetry and Dionysian rituals, and incorporated elements like music, dance, and song.

Who was Dionysus in Greek theatre?

Dionysus was known as the god of theater, and performances were integral to the religious and civic life of Athenian male citizens.

What were early Greek tragedies characterized by?

Early tragedies featured a single actor and a chorus leader, with later innovations increasing the number of actors to three, all male, who wore masks.

What was the purpose of competitions at the City Dionysia festival?

Major tragedies were created for competitions where three playwrights presented three tragedies and a satyr play, with prizes like bronze cauldrons and prestige.

What contributions did Aeschylus make to Greek Tragedy?

Aeschylus added a second actor and developed the trilogy format.

How did Sophocles contribute to the evolution of Greek Drama?

Sophocles added a third actor and painted scenery to his plays.

What is Hamartia in the context of Oedipus?

Hamartia is an ancient Greek concept referring to a tragic flaw, which in Oedipus' case involves his pride and moral judgment.

What are the major themes explored in Oedipus Rex?

Major themes include Fate vs Free Will, Sight vs Blindness, Truth vs Ignorance, and Power and Leadership.

How does Oedipus Rex address the concept of fate?

Oedipus' life is controlled by an unchangeable prophecy that leads him to fulfill his tragic destiny despite his efforts to avoid it.

What is the significance of Oedipus' physical sight versus his metaphorical blindness?

Oedipus has physical sight but is blind to his true identity; his self-blinding symbolizes acceptance of painful truth.

What causes Jocasta's demise in Oedipus Rex?

Jocasta's demise stems from her inability to face the truth of Oedipus' identity and their tragic fate, leading her to commit suicide.

How does Oedipus' leadership change throughout the play?

Oedipus begins as a proud and decisive leader but becomes tragic and eventually flawed due to hubris and the inability to foresee his fate.

What role do the Shepherd and Messenger play in Oedipus Rex?

They are bearers of critical truth that reveal Oedipus’ and Jocasta’s tragic identities and facilitate the final revelation.

How is truth-seeking portrayed in Oedipus Rex?

Truth-seeking reflects human curiosity and commitment to justice, but it can also lead to devastating consequences when the truth is tragic.

What distinguishes Creon's leadership from Oedipus'?

Creon's leadership is rational and calm, representing stability and wisdom, while Oedipus is portrayed as prideful and rash, leading to chaos.