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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 gift did Apollo give Cassandra before the events of The Oresteia?

3. What does Clytemnestra assume about Cassandra?

4. About whom does the chorus ask the herald for news?

5. After receiving news of the fall of Troy, which Trojan does the chorus agree got what he deserved?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. What is Clytemnestra's vision for the future after the death of Agamemnon?

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

4. How does Cassandra describe Apollo and why?

5. What do the chorus of women comment upon while bewailing their grief over Agamemnon?

6. What feelings does the Watchman have while on the roof in the beginning of the play?

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

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

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

10. What are Agamemnon's feelings about Troy?

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

In "The Oresteia", what is the relationship between the gods and men? Consider how Apollo and Athena interact with the mortals versus the way the Furies act. How do the humans pray to the gods? How do the gods feel about the humans and vice versa? Cite specific examples from the text to support your arguments.

Essay Topic 3

Consider the god Apollo. On one hand, he is Orestes' savior, offering his support and guidance of the young man at every turn. On the other hand, Apollo has ruined Cassandra's life, cursing her and allowing Troy to be defeated. Explore the conflicting roles of Apollo and how he has affected the events of "The Oresteia". Cite specific examples from the text.

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