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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. What does the nurse show Theseus when he demands to know why Phaedra is determined to die in the third act?

2. To where is Thyestes traveling in the third act?

3. How does Phaedra die?

4. What does Phaedra wear in the second act?

5. How does Atreus justify his wicked plans against his brother?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Theseus' conflicting emotions over the death of his son and upon learning of his wife's deception.

2. What is significant about Theseus' return from the underworld in regards to the plot in "Phaedra"?

3. Discuss the backstory of the House of Pelops.

4. How is Tantalus manipulated into releasing the Fury upon the House of Pelops?

5. What plot does Atreus form against his brother and why?

6. How is Theseus manipulated into believing his son raped Phaedra?

7. What do Thyestes and his children believe about their upcoming meeting with Atreus?

8. Describe the backstory to "Phaedra."

9. Describe Hippolytus' preferences in life and how he is at odds with other people over it.

10. Why does Phaedra wear hunting garb in the second act?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In "Oedipus," discuss the connection between vision and knowledge. Develop a clear thesis statement around this topic. Why is it significant that Tiresias is blind? What are some references to Oedipus being unable to see the truth? How is this related to the statement from Tiresias that "[Oedipus] wilt look with envy upon these ills for which thou seekest aid"? How does this ultimately relate to Oedipus blinding himself? Cite specific examples from the text to support your answers.

Essay Topic 2

What is the debate regarding the performance ability of a Senecan tragedy? How does the emphasis on rhetoric suggest that these plays were meant to be recited? How is this related to the on-stage violence? What are some other suggestions that point to these plays having been written with the intention of being performed? Discuss both sides of this debate in a brief essay and conclude with your opinions on whether Seneca intended for his work to be performed.

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the theme of corruption within a family in the following format:

Part 1) The House of Pelops.

Part 2) Phaedra's manipulations of Theseus and Hippolytus.

Part 3) The rise of Nero.

Part 4) Octavia's fate.

Part 5) Power and punishments.

(see the answer keys)

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