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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. Where does Polyneices go to marry a princess?

2. Who does Eteocles call upon to fight to protect the land and the city of Thebes?

3. Who does Eteocles pray to in the beginning of part 1?

4. What is the setting of the play?

5. Who is the King of Thebes in the beginning of the Background?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why do you think Eteocles makes no comment regarding the attacking general Eteoklos but immediately sends out his general?

2. Why does Eteocles say he is so angry with the Chorus in the beginning of part 2?

3. How does the city of Thebes view both Eteocles and Polyneices?

4. Why do you think the death of Eteocles and Polyneices is referred to as an "occassion for both rejoicing and weeping"?

5. What is the importance of the Oracle of Apollo?

6. Describe the theme of fate as depicted in part 2 of the play.

7. Why did the Oracle of Apollo punish Laius and what was his punishment?

8. What is the significance of Oedipus being rescued and raised by a farmer?

9. Describe Laius' reaction to the Oracle's foreshadowing of Oedipus' life. Was his reaction justified? Explain.

10. Describe Laius' character.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the power of law represented in Seven Against Thebes. What power and limitations exists within the legal system? How do these laws directly affect Antigone?

Essay Topic 2

After Eteocles and Polyneices kill each other, it is said that the curse is destroyed and the city of Thebes would prosper again. Why would this be ironic to the Greek audience at that time?

Essay Topic 3

Describe in detail one of the seven battle match-ups. Who was fighting? What was on the enemy's shield? Why did Eteocles match his general with this particular enemy?

(see the answer keys)

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