Oedipus the King: Past Exam Questions

2013:

What are the circumstances which lead Oedipus to send for Tiresias?(10)

Describe the encounter between Tiresias and Oedipus (25)

What does the encounter reveal about Oedipus's character? (15)

2012:

Discuss Sophocles' use of irony (50)

2011:

Why do the Thebans have such a high opinion of Oedipus? (20)

Do you agree that Oedipus' great qualities contributed to his downfall? (30)

2010:

Discuss the role and character of Jocasta (50)

2009:

Oedipus has no control over what has happened to him before coming to Thebes but he shows his greatness in the way he reacts to his fate. Discuss (50)

2008:

Analyse the relationship between Oedipus and Creon (50)

2007:

Discuss the view that Oedipus displays all qualities of a great detective (50)

2006:

Give an outline of the encounter between Tiresias and Oedipus. (25)

What is your opinion of the behavior of both Tiresias and Oedipus in this encounter? (25)

2005:

Discuss the Chorus under the following headings:

Attitude of the Chorus to Oedipus (25)

Attitude of the Chorus to prophecies and oracles

2004:

Discuss Oedipus' qualities as the ruler of Thebes

2003:

In the gradual uncovering of the truth, Jocasta's mention of Laius' death 'where three roads meet' marks the turning point in the play.

Cadmus Sowing the Dragon's teeth, by Maxfield Parr...

This image was first published in the 1 st (1876&n...

Oedipus complex: Oedipus explains the riddle of th...

Discuss (50)

2002:

Sophocles' tragedy presents us with a terrible affirmation of man's subordinate position in the universe, and at the same time with a heroic vision of man's victory in defeat. Discuss (50)

2001:

Discuss the character of Jocasta and assess the importance of her role. (50)

2000:

'Oedipus is clearly a very great man'

What makes Oedipus 'a very great man'? (50)

1999:

Oracles and prophecies are central to the play.

Analyse the attitude to oracles and prophecies...