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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does Jason say Medea is lucky?

2. What does Creon, despite his actions, believe compassion leads to?

3. What does Medea say about the value of being clever?

4. What stands in the way of Medea enacting her plans immediately?

5. Who appears to check on Medea after hearing her cries?

Short Essay Questions

1. What makes Medea's comment about Jason living as a nobody particularly cutting?

2. Does the Nurse find Medea sympathetic? Why or why not?

3. Why is a messenger used to describe how Creon and the princess die?

4. How is Jason's behavior different the second time he speaks with Medea?

5. Why do you think Medea lies to Jason when he returns with the Nurse?

6. Why do you think the chorus is made entirely of Corinthian women?

7. What does the argument between Jason and Medea reveal about their marriage?

8. Medea is clearly a very proud character, so what do you think motivates her to beg Creon on her knees for more time before being forced into exile?

9. The ode from the chorus after Medea's monologue seems a bit misplaced, as though they are not speaking about Medea at all. What do you think is the purpose of this choral piece?

10. Describe how the princess and Creon die.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss at least two methods of delivering exposition throughout the play, and argue for which method is the most efficient and best connects with the audience.

Essay Topic 2

Explain how "deus ex machina" is used in classical Greek plays. What is the purpose of the mechanic? How common is it? Why would an author choose to use this mechanic?

Essay Topic 3

Family dynamics in "Medea" run the gamut from casual disinterest to compassionate love and then violent attachment. Examine the varying natures of family within the context of the play, using at least two families as examples. Why does the author choose to create these dynamics? What point is he making?

(see the answer keys)

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