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

2. To Aegisthus's consternation, of what does the chorus remind him?

3. Why does Agamemnon walk inside his palace the way he does?

4. For what does the herald thank the gods?

5. How does Electra know the offering on the tomb came from Orestes?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

3. What is Cassandra's curse and why was it placed on her?

4. Why does Cassandra finally walk into the palace?

5. How does Cassandra describe Apollo and why?

6. What are the disputes amongst the chorus when they hear Agamemnon screaming from inside the palace?

7. According to the chorus, how must Electra pray?

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

9. What are Agamemnon's feelings about Troy?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Consider the reactions the chorus and Orestes have to Clytemnestra's relationship with Aegisthus. Conversely, look at how the chorus and Clytemnestra treat Agamemnon when he reveals that he has brought Cassandra back with him as a concubine. What do these differing reactions signify about the roles of men and women in this play? Are these a reflection of the time? Bear in mind that in the first play the chorus is comprised of old men. Cite specific examples from the text to support your argument.

Essay Topic 2

The language of "The Oresteia" alternates between being simple dialogue and poetically complicated. Discuss the use of language in the following format:

Part 1) The chorus invoking the gods.

Part 2) The simple exchanges of dialogue.

Part 3) The stylized speeches of Cassandra and the Furies.

Cite specific examples from the text.

Essay Topic 3

In "The Oresteia", the women are the ones who are depicted as seeking revenge. With this in mind, what is the play attempting to say about women? Create a strong thesis. Points to consider include:

1) Clytemnestra's revenge for her daughter's death.

2) Cassandra's visions and her prayers that her death will be avenged.

3) The Furies as bloodthirsty, vengeful goddesses.

4) Orestes' quest of revenge.

5) The roles of Athena and Apollo in Orestes' plight.

(see the answer keys)

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