1. How is Sophocles’ goal of returning to the Hellenic perspective supported in “Oedipus The King”? What might have been his purpose?

2. Choose one significant event and say how this supports your coherent statement for the main idea for the play.

...this is due on friday not tomorrow :)

1. Have you read the play?

2. Have you checked out the different study guide sites?

http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/

http://www.gradesaver.com/study-guides/

http://www.pinkmonkey.com/

Mr.V?

To determine how Sophocles' goal of returning to the Hellenic perspective is supported in "Oedipus The King," we need to closely examine the play. Here's how you can approach this question:

1. Familiarize yourself with the Hellenic perspective: The Hellenic perspective refers to the values, beliefs, and cultural norms of ancient Greece during the time of Sophocles. It is important to understand the central tenets of the Hellenic worldview, such as the belief in fate, the gods' influence on human lives, and the importance of self-knowledge.

2. Analyze the play's portrayal of fate: In "Oedipus The King," the concept of fate and the inevitability of destiny are central themes. Oedipus, the main character, is fated to kill his father and marry his mother, despite his best efforts to avoid these tragic events. This aligns with the Hellenic perspective, which acknowledges the overwhelming power of fate and the gods' influence on human lives.

3. Look for instances of divine intervention: In the play, the gods play an active role in shaping events. The Oracle of Delphi, a symbol of divine knowledge, prophesies Oedipus' fate, causing a series of events that fulfill the prophecy. This underscores the Hellenic belief in the gods' control over human destinies.

4. Consider the significance of tragedy and catharsis: Tragedy was a fundamental element of Hellenic theater, and Sophocles aimed to deliver a cathartic experience to the audience. "Oedipus The King" is a tragic play that elicits pity and fear. Its outcome reflects the Hellenic belief in the consequences of defying the gods' will and emphasizes the importance of humility, self-realization, and acceptance of fate.

Now, let's address the second question about choosing a significant event that supports the main idea of the play:

One significant event in "Oedipus The King" that supports the main idea of the play is the revelation of Oedipus' true identity. When Oedipus discovers that he unknowingly fulfilled the prophecy, it portrays the Hellenic belief in the powerlessness of mortals against the workings of destiny. This moment highlights the play's central theme of humans' limited control over their lives and the strong influence of the gods.

In conclusion, Sophocles' goal of returning to the Hellenic perspective in "Oedipus The King" is supported through the portrayal of fate, divine intervention, the use of tragedy for catharsis, and the revelation of Oedipus' true identity. The purpose of this play may have been to remind the audience of the Hellenic worldview's importance and to highlight the consequences of defying fate and the gods' will.