Oedipus Rex Scene 3 Quiz

At the beginning of Scene 3, why does Jocasta want Oedipus to stop looking into the prophecies?

• She thinks prophecies are stupid.

• She wants Oedipus to focus on ruling Thebes.

• She knows the truth and doesn't want Oedipus to find out.

• She wishes Creon would be exiled.

What news does the messenger bring to Thebes from Corinth?

• Merope has had another child.

• They are starting a war between cities.

• Polybus has died of natural causes.

• They need Oedipus to come back.

What is the "good" news that the messenger tells Oedipus?

• Oedipus was adopted.

• Merope has died so he doesn't have to worry about marrying her.

• Oedipus is lucky because he gets the throne next.

• Oedipus actually has an older brother who will take the throne.

Why was Oedipus initially saved by the shepherd as a baby?

• Polybus and Merope wanted a child.

• Oedipus was a bad kid so they wanted to raise him better.

• The shepherd hated the Thebans.

• The shepherd found him abandoned with his ankles tied up.

Who does Oedipus want to see next? (because obviously, he still doesn't know the truth...)

• Jocasta

• Creon

• Corinth's Shepherd

• Thebes' Servant

What does Jocasta realize at the end of Scene 3?

• That she married an insane man.

• That she can't have any more children.

• That Oedipus is her son.

• That Laius's ghost has been haunting Thebes this whole time.

Why does Oedipus think Jocasta is upset?

• He thinks she is mourning Laius.

• He thinks she believes Oedipus to be the killer.

• He thinks she doesn't trust his lineage anymore.

• He thinks she hates him.

What does the Chorus comment on in their last Ode? Do your best to reflect on their rantings.

Remember, the Chorus is speaking to the gods. They are sending their questions above to try for answers.