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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. When Oedipus' crimes are revealed, what happens to Jocasta?
(a) She commits suicide.
(b) She becomes ruler of Thebes.
(c) She is murdered.
(d) She blinds herself.

2. Plays in ancient Greece are produced as part of what type of ceremony?
(a) A pilgrimage.
(b) A eulogy.
(c) A religious festival.
(d) An offering.

3. What does Laius do to baby Oedipus after hearing the Oracle foretell Oedipus' future?
(a) He blinded the baby.
(b) He injured the baby's feet.
(c) He cursed the baby.
(d) He killed the baby.

4. What are the two plays leading up to "Seven Against Thebes" named?
(a) The Oracle and The Spinx.
(b) Ismene and Antigone.
(c) Polyneices and Eteocles.
(d) Laius and Oedipus.

5. The belief system of ancient Greece is that existence depends upon _____, or the will of the gods?
(a) Free will.
(b) Destiny.
(c) Luck.
(d) Fate.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Eteocles compare Thebes and its land to?

2. The Oracle foretells Laius that Oedipus would one day ______ his mother.

3. Eteocles is urged to do what by the scout?

4. In the opening of the Background, Laius has kidnapped, assaulted and murdered ______ son?

5. What is the name of Laius' son?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the overall mood of part 2.

2. Why do you think we are told what is on the shields of the attacking enemy but not what is on Eteocles' general's shields?

3. What threat does Eteocles give to the citizens of Thebes? Why do you think Eteocles threatens the citizens?

4. Give an example of how religion is utilized in part 1 of the play.

5. Describe Laius' reaction to the Oracle's foreshadowing of Oedipus' life. Was his reaction justified? Explain.

6. Why does the Chorus give an ode at the end of part 3?

7. How are women treated during wartime according to part 1 of the play? Why do you think women were treated in the manner?

8. How is the theme of family portrayed in this play?

9. Were Oedipus and Jocasta's reaction to their incestuous relations justified? Explain.

10. What is the significance of Oedipus being rescued and raised by a farmer?

(see the answer keys)

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