Arts Toolkit: Drama Handout

Oedipus the King Discussion Questions

Characteristics of Greek Theater

1. Why is Thebes a blighted city? Listen to or read Oedipus’ first speech for information.
2. Why does Oedipus have Teiresias brought to him?
3. At first Teiresias remains silent and tries not to respond to Oedipus. Why do you think he might have wanted to keep quiet? Do you think he knows the full story of the murder of King Laius? Might he want to protect Oedipus? If so, why?
4. What is Oedipus’ response to Teiresias’ unwillingness to tell what he knows? Find speeches early in the scene that reflect Oedipus’ anger. How does his response goad Teiresias into speaking?
5. What does Teiresias tell Oedipus?
6. Does Oedipus believe Teiresias? Find evidence in the scene that indicates Oedipus believes someone else must have murdered Laius.
7. Replay or read Teiresias’ final speech. Put in your own words what Teiresias is telling Oedipus.
8. Based on this speech as well as the scene itself, how do you think the play will end?
9. Look up the definition of the tragic hero in the Drama Glossary. Do you think this definition fits Oedipus? Why or why not?
10. How did the two actors interpreting the roles of Oedipus and Teiresias help you understand the characters and the action? Describe some of the performance elements you saw demonstrated in this scene.
11. In what ways is the reader’s theater format an effective format for Greek drama?
12. This play was first performed about 429 BCE, or nearly 2,500 years ago. Is its theme still relevant today? Explain.

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