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.
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...