Elements of Tragedy in Oedipus Rex

The video discusses Aristotle's view of Oedipus Rex as the perfect tragedy, highlighting key elements such as reversal of situation, recognition scenes, and scenes of suffering. Oedipus Rex exemplifies these elements through its plot, where Oedipus unknowingly kills his father and marries his mother, leading to a tragic reversal of fortune. The video also explores how these elements contribute to the success of modern tragedies.

Who wrote 'Oedipus Rex' and when was it first performed?

• Euripides, 431 BC

• Sophocles, 429 BC

• Aeschylus, 458 BC

• Aristophanes, 411 BC

What is the central theme of 'Oedipus Rex'?

• The importance of wealth

• The strength of friendship

• The inevitability of fate

• The power of love

What mistake does Oedipus make in the tragedy?

• He deliberately leaves Thebes

• He unwittingly marries his mother

• He knowingly kills his father

• He intentionally becomes king

According to Aristotle, what should a perfect tragedy include?

• A comedic subplot

• Reversal of situation, recognition scenes, and scenes of suffering

• A strong villain

• A happy ending

What is meant by 'reversal of situation' in a tragedy?

• A change from happiness to sadness

• A change from good fortune to bad

• A change from wealth to poverty

• A change from ignorance to knowledge

In 'Oedipus Rex', what triggers the reversal of situation?

• Oedipus's decision to leave Thebes

• The revelation of Oedipus's true parentage

• The death of Jocasta

• The arrival of a new king

What is the significance of the messenger's role in 'Oedipus Rex'?

• He brings news of a new king

• He reveals Oedipus's true parentage

• He announces a festival

• He delivers a prophecy

What is a recognition scene in a tragedy?

• A scene where a character falls in love

• A scene where a character is introduced

• A scene where a character gains wealth

• A scene where a character moves from ignorance to knowledge

How does Oedipus experience a recognition scene?

• He learns a new skill

• He meets a long-lost friend

• He finds a hidden treasure

• He discovers his true identity and his actions

What is a scene of suffering in a tragedy?

• A scene of joy and celebration

• A scene of mystery and suspense

• A scene of humor and laughter

• A scene of physical or emotional pain