The Theban legend of Oedipus the King was well-known to Sophocles in fifth century B.C. as it was known to the people of Athens for whom he wrote. Rather than merely retell an old story, what Sophocles did for the people of Greece and subsequently for people of Western civilization, was to transform a tale of individual woe into an archetypal chronicle of human frailty, pride, and punishment.

Students examine paradox and irony. They practice writing skills with journal and dialogue writing. Lessons focus on close reading. Students compare theater of ancient Greece to current theater. Other activities include map study, analysis of dramatic structure, and identification of stichomythia.

 

 

Supplementary materials include composition topics, optional projects, and quizzes and a final exam with answer keys.