Oedipus CFU 1.14

Why are lines 273-284 important to the development of the plot?

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In lines 286-288, Teiresias states, "Alas! It is a miserable thing to be wise when wisdom brings no reward. I had forgotten that ancient truth. Otherwise I would not be here." What does this suggest about Teiresias' attitude?

• He feels disheartened by the burden of his prophetic knowledge, knowing it often leads to suffering.

• He regrets coming to Thebes because he doubts his ability to assist Oedipus in solving the crisis.

• He resents the gods for giving him a gift that causes more harm than good to others.

• He is indifferent to the plight of Thebes, as he views the city’s problems as beyond his control.

What do lines 318-322 reveal about Oedipus’s character? Oedipus’s reaction in these lines shows that he…

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Which aspect of Teiresias’s speech in lines 300-305 most contributes to the conflict between him and Oedipus?

• His outright refusal to share knowledge he deems too dangerous to reveal.

• His cryptic warnings that Oedipus misunderstands and interprets as a threat.

• His insistence that he does not wish to harm Oedipus while withholding information.

• His deliberate provocation of Oedipus through evasive and mysterious answers.

How does the interaction between Oedipus and Teiresias in lines 300-326 reflect the values and challenges of the classical Greek period?

• It illustrates the Greek ideal of personal honor by emphasizing Oedipus’s determination to protect Thebes at all costs.

• It highlights the cultural reverence for prophets when their messages bring discomfort.

• It demonstrates the Greek challenge of reconciling human pride with the inescapable decrees of the gods.

• It embodies the Greek emphasis on rational discourse, as seen in Oedipus’s logical questioning of Teiresias.

What do lines 354-357 suggest about the role of fate in the play?

• Fate’s influence is limited to those who lack the power to make choices.

• Fate operates as an immutable force dictated by the gods, transcending human actions.

• Fate is portrayed as a negotiable outcome based on individual virtue.

• Fate is irrelevant to the story’s resolution, focusing instead on personal ambition.