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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What is Oedipus' initial attitude toward the crowd that has gathered?
(a) critical and derisive
(b) overjoyed and cheerful
(c) angry and annoyed
(d) caring and helpful

2. What is Creon's relationship to Oedipus?
(a) brother-in-law
(b) father-in-law
(c) brother
(d) no relation

3. What does Oedipus ask Teiresias to do, after Teiresias says Oedipus is the murderer?
(a) fall on his knees and pray
(b) fight him
(c) leave Thebes immediately
(d) repeat what he's said

4. What is Creon wearing on his head as he approaches the town?
(a) a chain of daisies
(b) a hood
(c) a crown
(d) a laurel wreath

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

Short Answer Questions

1. According to Creon, who does a witness say killed Laius?

2. Who does Teiresias say he was "wise enough" to?

3. Who does the priest suggest Oedipus listen to, in order to solve the town's problems?

4. What does Teiresias say makes him strong?

5. What deal does Oedipus offer the murderer if he gives himself in?

Short Essay Questions

1. What reason does Oedipus give for coming himself to see the crowd of people who have gathered at the beginning of the play?

2. Describe how the townspeople view Oedipus.

3. What is Teiresias referring to when he says Oedipus and his children will be "equals"?

4. What does the priest appeal to in asking Oedipus to save the city?

5. What does Oedipus wish on the murderer?

6. Describe what the people of Thebes have with them at the beginning of the play.

7. Why does Oedipus offer a deal to the murderer and set rules for the people of Thebes?

8. What does Oedipus accuse Teiresias of, that finally forces the prophet's tongue?

9. What is the attitude of the townspeople when they speak to Oedipus?

10. Why are the people of Thebes reluctant to think Oedipus guilty of a crime?

(see the answer keys)

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