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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. In the preface of "Phaedra," what is Hippolytus organizing?
(a) A hunt.
(b) A prayer service.
(c) A battle.
(d) A rebellion.

2. How does Atreus justify his wicked plans against his brother?
(a) Atreus is free to act because of his brother's actions against him.
(b) Atreus knows his brother is an atheist and will be under no protection.
(c) Atreus believes he is being commanded by the gods.
(d) He claims Thyestes raped his wife.

3. To whom does Hippolytus pray in the preface of "Phaedra"?
(a) Athena.
(b) Zeus.
(c) Apollo.
(d) Diana.

4. Upon what did Hippolytus' horses run when escaping the attacking creature?
(a) The rocks.
(b) The grass.
(c) The graves of dead warriors.
(d) The ruins of another castle.

5. Whom does Tantalus attempt to warn about their impending deaths?
(a) His nephews.
(b) His grandsons.
(c) His cousins.
(d) His sons.

Short Answer Questions

1. What is Phaedra doing in the beginning of the fifth act?

2. How does Atreus protect his sons from sharing the blame for his plot against Thyestes?

3. What reason does Atreus give for hating the three boys?

4. How was young Tantalus murdered?

5. Why was Hippolytus trapped upon his horse before his death?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. For what does Theseus pray at the end of the third act of "Phaedra" and how does the chorus react?

3. In what conflicting moods does Thyestes find himself as he travels to Argos?

4. What does Theseus plan to do at the end of "Phaedra" in regards to his dead family and why?

5. Over what is Tantalus agonizing in the afterlife and why?

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

7. Discuss the backstory of the House of Pelops.

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

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

10. Discuss the character of Atreus.

(see the answer keys)

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