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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. In which city does "The Oresteia" begin?

2. What god does the leader of the chorus praise for Agamemnon's victory?

3. What does Clytemnestra assume about Cassandra?

4. After Cassandra enters the castle and their monologue is interrupted, what dispute rises amongst the chorus?

5. For what does Clytemnestra scold the chorus in the second part of the first play?

Short Essay Questions

1. For what is Agamemnon praised and what is his response when he returns to Mycenae?

2. What news does Clytemnestra bring the chorus in the beginning of "The Agamemnon"?

3. What is the dispute Agamemnon and Clytemnestra have about his homecoming?

4. What is Electra supposed to do at her father's tomb?

5. What is the Watchman's duty at the beginning of "The Agamemnon"?

6. Why is Orestes praying to Hermes and Zeus at beginning of "The Libation Bearers"?

7. To what does the chorus compare Troy and why?

8. Why does the chorus call out for Orestes to return home at the end of the first play?

9. What are Agamemnon's feelings about Troy?

10. What is significant about Agamemnon walking into his palace barefoot?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the use of the chorus in "The Oresteia".

Part 1) Analyze their roles as observers in all three plays.

Part 2) How does the chorus become active participants and characters at certain points?

Part 3) How is the chorus able to act as a guide for the audience and readers?

Essay Topic 2

Choose one of the following topics to write about:

1) The description of Clytemnestra being "god abandoned."

2) Clytemnestra's relationship with Aegisthus.

3) The use of the Trojan women as the chorus in the second play.

Essay Topic 3

Create a thesis centered around the argument that a good deal of the problems in "The Oresteia" are the results of a generational conflict. Cite specific examples from the text to support your arguments. Points to consider include:

1) The differing approaches to revenge and justice in each generation.

2) The conflict between the elder gods and the younger gods.

3) Athena's peace offering to the Furies at the end of the play.

(see the answer keys)

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