Oedipus the King | Short Question Answer Key

Short Answer Key

Scene 1

1. At the beginning of the play, where have the townspeople gathered?

in front of the palace

2. What does Oedipus call the people of Thebes?

his children

3. What is Oedipus' initial attitude toward the crowd that has gathered?

caring and helpful

4. Who speaks for the people of Thebes as their leader?

the priest of Zeus

5. Who does the priest say has gathered?

townspeople from the very young to the very old

6. Where are the townspeople who are not gathered to speak with Oedipus?

at the gods' shrines asking for help

7. What does the priest call pestilence?

a fiery god

8. Why does the priest say they've come to Oedipus?

because he's the first among men

9. What does the priest point out about Oedipus overcoming the Sphinx?

Oedipus had no more knowledge or instruction than the townspeople, and yet was...
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