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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 her first appearance, Clytemnestra claims the chorus does not believe her. On what grounds does she base this claim?

2. Whom does Agamemnon tell Clytemnestra to greet and treat well?

3. What is the function of the herald at the beginning of the second part of the first play?

4. In the first part of the first play, according to Clytemnestra, what does Agamemnon have yet to endure?

5. When does the second play take place?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does the chorus compare life to a ship at sea during "The Agamemnon"?

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

3. For what does Clytemnestra take particular offense with the chorus in the last part of "The Agamemnon"?

4. How does Cassandra describe Apollo and why?

5. What dispute does Clytemnestra have with the chorus over the consequences of her murdering Agamemnon and Cassandra?

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

7. For what is the herald giving thanks during his entrance?

8. Why does Cassandra finally walk into the palace?

9. What happened to Menelaus, according to the herald?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

A constant, repeated theme in the first play of "The Oresteia" is that the Trojans got what they deserved when their city fell and people killed or enslaved. Explore this theme in the larger context of the entire play cycle. What does it mean when characters in "The Oresteia" are justifiably punished? How do they react to being punished? Cite specific examples from the text to support your arguments.

Essay Topic 2

When the Greek tragedies were first written, the stories and characters were well known to the audiences, which is why "The Oresteia" has a fairly complicated web of plot lines, history, and characters. Luckily, for modern audiences who may not be as familiar with these stories, though, characters, especially the chorus, offer insight and back stories in what is about to take place. Discuss the use of exposition in "The Oresteia". Does it add to or subtract from the content of the play? Is it strictly necessary to be familiar already with these stories? Why? Cite specific examples from the text to support your claims.

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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