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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 does the priest point out about Oedipus overcoming the Sphinx?
(a) Oedipus had no more knowledge or instruction than the townspeople, and yet was able to solve the riddle.
(b) Oedipus was able to defeat the Sphinx because of his powerful arm and his connections to royalty.
(c) Oedipus used superior training to defeat the Sphinx, and no one else had the same benefits.
(d) Oedipus defeated the Sphinx only out of sheer luck.

2. Why does the priest say they've come to Oedipus?
(a) because he's a god to the town
(b) because he's the one they all blame
(c) because he's the first among men
(d) because he's got the power of wealth

3. Who speaks for the people of Thebes as their leader?
(a) the parliamentary leader
(b) the priest of Zeus
(c) the oracle
(d) the prophet of Hera

4. What does Creon say about the god's call to avenge Laius' death now?
(a) He says it is fitting.
(b) He says it will be an easy task.
(c) He says it is too late for revenge.
(d) He says the gods have asked the impossible.

5. Why does Oedipus say his sorrow is greater than the townspeople?
(a) Oedipus's heart is greater and therefore his sorrow is greater.
(b) Oedipus says his personal loss from the plague is worse than anyone else's.
(c) Oedipus has sorrow for himself, the city, and all the townspeople.
(d) Oedipus is full of fear that he will be dethroned.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does the priest tell the people that they can leave at the end of the scene?

2. What does the chorus leader tell Oedipus about the murderer?

3. What does Oedipus say he's been doing in his sorrow?

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

5. What does Teiresias say makes him strong?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Oedipus respond to the townspeople's pleas for help?

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

3. How does Oedipus' attitude toward Teiresias change during their first discussion?

4. Describe how the townspeople view Oedipus.

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

6. Describe the message that Creon brings from the oracle.

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

8. What rumor does the chorus leader remind Oedipus of?

9. What reason does Teiresias give for coming to see Oedipus?

10. What does Oedipus wish for any townspeople who don't obey his orders?

(see the answer keys)

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