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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Scene 4.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Before Teiresias leaves, what does he say about the murderer's nationality?
(a) that he is an Athenian
(b) that he is a Corinthian
(c) that he comes from no nation
(d) that he will turn out to be a native Theban

2. Why does Oedipus say he must remain afraid?
(a) because the prophets speak for the gods
(b) because they have no proof of what the messenger says
(c) because the prophecy will probably be fulfilled in some surprising way
(d) because his mother is still alive

3. What does Oedipus first say to Jocasta, after questioning the messenger about Polybus' death?
(a) He regrets that he left his home in Corinth without reason.
(b) He wonders why anyone would pay homage to Apollo's prophets.
(c) He says that this foretells a new era of prosperity in Thebes.
(d) He says he must immediately leave for Corinth to see his mother.

4. What does Teiresias answer when Oedipus asks the identity of his father?
(a) That Oedipus has two fathers.
(b) That it will be revealed today and destroy Oedipus.
(c) That Oedipus will be better off not knowing.
(d) That Oedipus truly knows who his father is.

5. At the end of the scene, what does Oedipus ask the people to stand up and take?
(a) arms
(b) their suppliant branches
(c) pity on him in his misery
(d) the news to the outlying farms

Short Answer Questions

1. Does Oedipus want to see the person the messenger says gave him the infant Oedipus?

2. Does Oedipus say he's ever met Laius?

3. What argument does Oedipus offer that Teiresias is not really a prophet?

4. What possible explanation does the chorus leader give for Oedipus' charge against Creon?

5. Who is with the approaching shepherd?

(see the answer key)

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