Week 6 Discussion

The chosen passage from the antistrophe of the Chorus in Oedipus the King is rich with beautiful language that invokes powerful mythological figures. The Chorus calls upon Athene, Artemis, and Phoebus, three of the most revered gods in ancient Greek mythology, to come to their aid in a time of great crisis. The language used to describe these deities is particularly noteworthy. Athene is called the “deathless daughter of Zeus,” highlighting her divine status and immortal nature. Artemis is described as the “Earth Upholder,” emphasizing her connection to the natural world and the vital role she plays in sustaining life on Earth. Phoebus is called the “Far Shooter,” a reference to his role as a god of archery, and his ability to shoot arrows across great distances. The Chorus then implores these three gods to come to their aid, asking them to drive away the flames of destruction that threaten their land. The use of the word “ruin” emphasizes the gravity of the situation, and the urgency of the Chorus’s plea. Overall, this passage is a prime example of the Chorus’s ability to use beautiful language to invoke powerful mythological figures and convey the depth of emotion and urgency felt by the citizens of Thebes in this time of crisis. Quote: “First I call on you, Athene, deathless daughter of Zeus, and Artemis, Earth Upholder, who sits in the midst of the marketplace in the throne which men call Fame, and Phoebus, the Far Shooter, three averters of Fate, come to us now, if ever before, when ruin rushed upon the state, you drove destruction’s flame away out of our land.” (Lines 189-195)

We look at this man’s words and yours, my king, and we find both have spoken them in anger. We need no angry words but only thought. how we may best hit the God’s meaning for us. This remark caught my attention the most because, despite what people often claim, some things can be painful to hear and express. When they do, it hurts so much that we don’t stop to consider the impact of our words or the harm they may cause. We never apologize after angry speech and continue. When we finally realize how much harm our words caused, it is already too late.

A scene and passage by the chorus that I liked was “This is a terrible sight for men to see! I never found a worse! Poor wretch, what madness came upon you! What evil spirit leaped upon your life to your ill-luck—a leap beyond man’s strength! Indeed I pity you, but I cannot look at you, though there’s much I want to ask and much to learn and much to see. I shudder at the sight of you” (1488-1497). I chose this passage because its language and expressions are deep and interesting, and the message behind it is easy to understand. The Chorus cries in agony that Oedipus let his anger take over him and is too terrible for eyes to see, that he has been punished in both body and soul and claimed it would’ve been better death than blindness.

“For whoso slew that king might have a mind To strike me too with his assassin hand. Therefore in righting him I serve myself This passage reflects Oedipus’ sense of duty as a king to seek justice and to protect his people, but it also reflects his personal motivation to protect himself. Oedipus is aware that if the murderer of King Laius is not found, he himself may be the next target. In this way, Oedipus’ search for the murderer serves a dual purpose: to protect his own life and to uphold justice for the sake of his people. The passage also suggests a deeper message about the interconnectedness of humanity. Oedipus recognizes that the murder of King Laius not only affected the royal family but also had repercussions for the entire city of Thebes. In seeking justice for the king’s death, Oedipus is serving not only his own interests but also the interests of his people. Overall, this passage conveys a message about the importance of acting with a sense of duty and responsibility towards others. It reminds us that our actions have consequences and that we are all interconnected in ways that we may not always realize.  

After reading “Oedipus the King” translated by David Grene. the quote that stood out to me from the story that exemplifies one of Aristotle’s criteria for great tragic theater comes from line 195 to line 200 it says, “our sorrows defy number all of ship’s timbers are rotten taking of thought is no spear for the driving away of the plague 0 You may see them one with another, like birds swift on the wing.” I picked this passage because it gave until a look inside to what seems to be hell on earth. Every day they wake up and go through the same thing over and over bit by bit their hope is being teared away as they realize this is their life and that’s it. They chorus contributes as the deeper you get into the story, they praise Zues and the War God Ares calling him the “Lord of Lighting” begging for help. It pierces through that they still have a slither of hope left.

The theme of The Plague by the Chorus is one of resilience and hope in the face of adversity. The Chorus speaks of the plague as a force of nature that cannot be controlled, but that can be endured. They emphasize the importance of maintaining hope and courage in the face of the plague, and of finding strength in the community. The Chorus also speaks of the need to look beyond the immediate suffering and to focus on the future. They emphasize the importance of looking for the silver lining in the midst of the darkness, and of finding joy in the small moments of life. Ultimately, the Chorus encourages the audience to remain strong and to find hope in the midst of the plague.

“In the unnumbered death of its people the city dies; those children that are born lie dead on the naked earth unpitied, spreading contagion of death; and gray-haired mothers and wives everywhere stand at the altar’s edge, suppliant, moaning; the hymn to the healing God rings out but with it the wailing voices are blended. From these our sufferings grant us, O golden Daughter of Zeus, glad-faced deliverance” (Oedipus, 204-210). I chose this passage because the language used is rich and evocative, with the repetition of “death” emphasizing the gravity of the city’s tragedy. The depiction of dead children lying on the naked earth, as well as mothers and wives standing at the altar, pleading for divine intervention, is particularly moving. The use of the word “unpitied” by the Chorus emphasizes the sense of isolation and abandonment felt by the people of Thebes in their suffering. The passage’s final lines 209-210 introduce the hope of salvation, with the Chorus appealing to the goddess Artemis for deliverance. The epithet “golden Daughter of Zeus” and the phrase “glad-faced deliverance” add to the language’s beauty and power, conveying a sense of reverence and supplication. Ultimately, I find this passage beautiful because it’s a perfect example of the Chorus’s ability to portray their complex feelings and connection to the Theban people using exquisite language and imagery.

” Our sorrows defy number; all the ship’s timbers are rotten; taking of thought is no spear for the driving away of the plague There are no growing children in this famous land; there are no women bearing the pangs of childbirth. 200 You may see them one with another, like birds swift on the wing, quicker than fire unmastered, speeding away to the coast of the Western God” (Oedipus 195-203) I chose this quote because I could feel the desperation for there to be a cure or a miracle to stop the Black Plague that is taking over the city. In this quote, the citizen is basically saying there are more people dying than being born. When he says, “you may see them one with another… speeding away to the coast of the Western God” (Oedipus 200-203) he was pretty much saying that everyone collectively is dropping like flies. This was beautiful to me because there is a sense of unity even during this time of illness in the city. It has a dark yet comforting feel because it demonstrates that death does not play favorites. In Greek mythology, it’s believed that your fate is unique to you depending on how you were as a person. For example, evil rulers in Greek mythology always ended up cursed for their crimes. In this case, death is taking anyone through illness which adds more reasoning behind the citizen’s desperation for Oedipus to save the city.

In Lines 425-430, Teiresias and Oedipus have a heated conversation and lead to certain accusations and statements. The quote that came out to me was as follows: “Oedipus: Do you imagine you can always talk like this and love to laugh at it hereafter? Teiresias: Yes, if the truth has anything of strength. Oedipus: It has, but not for you; it has no strength for you because you are blind in mind and ears as well as in your eyes.” I have chosen these lines of text, especially the last statement Oedipus says because it is very much a true statement for anyone who is close minded. The truth has power but does nothing for someone who refuses to listen to it, and this line can also serve as a reminder for everyone to always have an open mind. Close-minded people often do not want their ideas challenged and in this day and age has led to a lot of discrimination and judgment that shouldn’t happen to begin with.

As the drama begins, the citizens of Thebes plead with their king Oedipus to lift the plague that threatens to destroy the city. He has sent his brother-in-law Creon to oracle that the plague will end when the murderer of Laius (the former king) is killed or banished. So the king set out to find the killer, who ironically was the killer but he didn’t know it. who is the man proclaimed by Delphi’s prophetic rock as the bloody handed murderer, the doer of deeds that none dare name? Now is the time for him to run with a stronger foot than Pegasus38 for the child of Zeus leaps in arms upon him with fire and the lightning bolt, and terribly close on his heels are the Fates that never miss.(line545-550) The chorus warns that the murderer will be pursued by the gods. If he does not stop what he is doing, he will be punished I do not know what to say; I am in a flutter of foreboding; (line570) The choir represents the citizens, who have doubts about the revered king

The chorus just sang a prayer to the gods Zues  Apollo Athena Artemis describing the horrors they are going through during the plague. They beg for forgive from the gods saying that no one is surviving not even woman and children the Chorus go on to say that the woman can not produce babies because of this plague that is bringing disease and killing everyone. The theme of the plague by the chorus is to make it be known that it is only death and more death that is going on. “Death so many Death” 203-204 the chorus is using the plague and all the dying to try to gather pity and sympathy from the gods they want the gods to spare them.  The Chorus wanted to be cured of the plague but was very afraid of what they would have to do in return for having the gods help them. “First I call on you, Athene, deathless daughter of Zeus and Artemis  earth upholder” “Our sorrows defy number all the ships timber rotten there are no children and no woman giving birth You may see them one with another, like birds swift on the wing quicker than fire speeding away to the coast of western god”. The chorus describing the plague to the gods.

When I was younger and teachers would give Greek Mythology to read, I really enjoyed it. I always enjoyed reading things people went by, or believed in, in the past-like Greek Mythology. I was pleased to read “Oedipus the King”. I will admit it was a slow start but as I continued reading, it picked up and I found myself intrigued in the play. Lines 993-1008 state: “May destiny ever find me pious in word and deed prescribed by the laws that live on high: laws begotten in the clear air of heaven, whose only father is Olympus; no mortal nature brought them to birth, no forgetfulness shall lull them to sleep; for God is great in them and grows not old…But I pray that the God may never abolish the eager ambition that profits the state. For I shall never cease to hold the God as our protector.” I have chosen this passage because in my opinion it demonstrates how powerful is their feeling and belief in their god. They recognize him as their protector and will have the utmost respect for him regardless of anything to come. They put him first and see to him as their creator, and believe that he lives in them timelessly. This passage stood out to me because it portrayed how strong their belief was and how regardless of what was happening, or what was to happen, they still had faith and hope- which was inspiring.

“a War God ringed with the cries of men, a savage God who burns us; grant that he turn in racing course backwards out of our country’s bounds to the great palace of Amphitrite19 or where the waves of the Thracian sea 215 deny the stranger safe anchorage. Whatsoever escapes the night at last the light of day revisits; so smite the War God, Father Zeus, beneath your thunderbolt, 220 for you are the Lord of the lightning, the lightning that carries fire.” Lines 215-220 I chose this passage because the chorus is showing and explaining to me about a God and its emotions. It is basically saying that Lightning is the traditional symbol of sudden enlightenment and the destruction of ignorance, and the fire basically represents God’s presence when Moses met God in the burning bush and later when God appeared in a pillar of fire and led the people into the wilderness.   

“Once you have brought us luck with happy omen; be no less now in fortune. If you will rule this land, as now you rule it, better to rule it full of men than empty. For neither tower nor ship is anything when empty, and none live in it together.” (Chorus, Lines 60-65) Due to the depth of its language and the significance it bore within the greater context of the play, this specific passage stuck out to me. In essence, the chorus is saying that ruling a prosperous, populated area is preferable to ruling one that is uninhabited. They commend Oedipus for his success in guiding Thebes so far and encourage him to carry on bringing wealth and riches to the city. They also express gratitude to Oedipus for his leadership. The imagery of the abandoned ship and tower serves to highlight the importance of coexisting with one another and cooperating for the benefit of society as a whole, in addition to emphasizing the importance of community and the necessity for members of a society to come together in order for a society to function.  

“ Teiresias, you are versed in everything, things teachable and things not to be spoken, things of the heaven and earth-creeping things. You have no eyes but in your mind you know330 with what a plague our city is afflicted. My lord, in you alone we find a champion, in you alone on that can rescue us. Perhaps you have not heard the messengers, but Phoebus sent in answer to our sending 335 an oracle declaring that our freedom from this disease would only come when we should learn the names of those who killed King Laius, and kill them or expel them from our country.” Lines 327 – 339  The above quote is spoken by the Oedipus to Teiresias in Oedipus the King. This passage stands out to me because of the powerful language used to describe Teiresias’s knowledge and ability to help the city of Thebes. The Chorus acknowledges that Teiresias is knowledgeable about everything, including things that cannot be spoken of, which adds to his sense of mystery and power. Additionally, the use of phrases such as “earth-creeping things” and “plague our city is afflicted” create vivid and impactful imagery. The Chorus sees Teiresias as the only one who can rescue them from the plague, which adds a sense of urgency to the situation. The mention of Phoebus’s oracle and the need to find the killer of King Laius adds a sense of mystery and intrigue to the plot, setting up the central conflict of the play. Overall, this passage showcases the Chorus’s ability to use language to set the scene and create tension, while also highlighting the power and knowledge of Teiresias.

I’m a huge fan of Greek mythology, but not so much a fan of reading plays – not even Shakespeare. I always found it difficult to understand or follow what was going on. However, reading this piece, although I had to “get in a zone” when I began reading, had what we are speaking on…beautiful language. Lines 545 – 552 read: the doer of deeds that none dare name?Now is the time for him to runwith a stronger footthan Pegasusfor the child of Zeus leaps in arms upon himwith fire and the lightning bolt,and terribly close on his heelsare the Fates that never miss. These lines speak to a wrong that was committed before Oedipus’ reign. A wrong so vile, no one speaks of the name or names of the offender. The Chorus painted the image that now is the time for the wrong-doer to make haste because his consequences are catching up to him fast; but what good would that do? The Fates, or the Daughters of Death, never miss, so metaphorically, the offender would need to be swifter than Pegasus to outrun his fate, his consequences, This passage, albeit short, was filled with a visual of raw emotions and a simple but clear message. I saw this as saying you can’t outrun the past, or even saying whatever is done in the dark, will come to the light. The first line – “the doer of deeds that no one dare name”, spoke to the fear that is only cast amongst men, but by line 551, “and terribly close on his heels  are the Fates that never miss”. it spoke to the power of the gods and consequences. The depth within those six lines captured my attention.

The passage that I have chosen from “Oedipus the King”   is “First I call on you, Athene, deathless daughter of Zeus, and Artemis, Earth Upholder, who sits in the midst of the market place in the throne which men call Fame, and Phoebus, the Far Shooter, three averters of Fate, come to us now, if ever before, when ruin rushed upon the state, you drove destruction’s flame away out of our land”.  (Lines 190- 194) This passage tells us about how the importance of religion and the believe in luck in the greek society.The greek people do believe that Gods do have a huge impacts on the  during the  lifetime of the people and they can interfear with it in either to benefit the human or to harm them.This passage also tells us about Hubris, which is a concept in which the humans that they are better than God and God does not have any effect on their lives, but they do turn to God during bad times or when they are facing troubles in life.

Oedipus saved the citizens of Thebes by answering the Sphinx’s riddle correctly, thereby becoming their king and now is referred to as their savior. The Chorus has had no doubt in the abilities of their king, yet after witnessing an argument between Oedipus and Teiresias, they no longer know who to trust.  In lines 564 through 574, we see the prophet has now brought forward an attention to the King’s temper, of which the Chorus cannot deny, “The augur has spread confusion, terrible confusion; I do not approve what was said nor can I deny it. I do not know what to say; I am in a flutter of foreboding; I never heard in the present nor past of a quarrel between the sons of Labdacus and Polybus, that I might bring as proof in attacking the popular fame of Oedipus,” beautifully stating their new fear of now knowing what’s to come based on this new portrayal of their king. Do they trust their savior who has proven himself to be worthy or the prophet who speaks the word of their gods? However, the Chorus restates their faith in Oedipus in lines 578 through 591 by stating that no man shall be judged by another man with wise words from another, unless this “wisdom” is proved to be correct. “Truly Zeus and Apollo are wise and in human things all knowing; but amongst men there is no distinct judgment, between the prophetand me—which of us is right. One man may pass another in wisdom but I would never agree with those that find fault with the king till I should see the word proved right beyond doubt. For once in visible form the Sphinx came on him and all of us saw his wisdom and in that test he saved the city. So he will […]

“Oedipus the King” begins with King Oedipus discovering how to end the plagues that are currently upon Thebes. Creon comes with news from Apollo telling him they must kill the person who murdered a previous king named Laius. While Oedipus is trying to figure out who this person is, he is visited by Teisias who ultimately confuses Oedipus with his answer. After this interaction, the Chorus is now asking who the murderer is. A part of this section of the story that caught my attention with its vivid imagery is line 557-563: “In the savage forests he lurks and in the caverns like the mountain bull He is sad and lonely, his feet that carry him far from the navel of earth but its prophecies, ever living, flutter around his head.” I really enjoy the references to nature, and the simile comparing the murderer to a bull. The first three lines create a rich, dark imaginative setting. It is a clever way of calling this search for the murderer a hunt. I also like the personification of the earth, giving it a navel like it has a human form. This passage poetically captures the racing thoughts of who the murderer can be, which is a very perplexing subject at the moment to everyone except Teirsias.

Initially, the Chorus plays a significant role in “Oedipus the King”. The Chorus consists of the citizens in the town of Thebes and can be described best as background in a sense. However, the Chorus assists the reader into an immersive enviroment. The characters, emotions, and ideas are better described by the chorus, therefore allowing readers to understand and relate to0 the characters better. The purpose of the chorus is to convey deeper meaning of what other characters have to say/their emotions. For instance, according to the play, it states, “As you have held me to my oath, I speak: I neither killed the king nor can declare the killer; but since Phoebus set the quest it is his part to tell who the man is. Right; but to put compulsion on the Gods against their will—no man can do that. May I then say what I think second best”? (295-305) This passage is specifically portraying how the Chorus conveys its own ideas, as well as contribute and build off of others ideas. This keeps the play going smoothly and adds to the plot as the Chorus serves a purpose in the plot. The citizen, or chorus, asks Oedipus if they can share their opinions and ideas. Another main point is how the chorus is directly involved with the tragedy. The Chorus too is concerned and looking for the killer, further proving the point of their importance and h0ow the balance out the play. In addition, the Chorus had a mind of its own in a sense and not even Oedipus could tell how they really felt about his situation. To his surprise he wasn’t expecting them to feel angered by the situation, but turns out Oedipus was wrong and the citizens actually felt sorrowful and compassionate.

In the play “Oedipus the King” by Sophocles, the author uses “languages enhanced by varying beauties” referenced by Aristotle. Sophocles uses this sophisticated language throughout the whole play but it is most prevalent when the chorus made up of old men from the city of Thebes speak. A short passage that stood out to me can be found at line 1375 to 1385 when the chorus says, “…Luckless Oedipus, whom of all men I envy not at all.” Followed by, “In as much as he shot his bolt beyond the others and won the prize of happiness complete— O Zeus—and killed and reduced to nought the hooked taloned maid of the riddling speech, standing a tower against death for my land; hence he was called my king and hence was honored the highest of all honors; and hence he ruled in the great city of Thebes. But now whose tale is more miserable?” Who the people of Thebes once saw a light during dark times was revealed to be a man with a sick past and poor judgment. I enjoyed this passage because it shows that the residents of Thebes looked at Oedipus’s situation with pity rather than disgust and anger, contrary to what Oedipus thought.  

While Oedipus showed his dedication from day one when he was praised for coming to save the city and free the citizens, it is stated in the story that “Oedipus is the greatest in all men’s eyes, here falling at your feet we all entreat you, find us some strength for rescue” (46-48). He had gained respect and was honored; the citizen had found reassurance and strength in him. Chorus 718-719 states, “his words are wise, king, if one fears to fall. Those who are quick of temper are not safe.” I have chosen this passage because the citizens’ voices speak of fear, justice for finding the killer, and loyalty to the King. But, because of anger, hot-tempered people tend to regret their behavior after the act has been committed because it was used before weighing options. Humans often don’t think before they act, and it’s natural, but our actions can devastate others; therefore, Oedipus must regain his calm and not let his emotions get the best of him.

The role played by the Chorus is very important. With their chants and songs, the Chorus helps the audience better connect with the characters, immersing us in the essence of the tragedy. “If a man walks arrogantly of hand or word and disregards justice and the shrines of the gods despise – may an evil fate strike him for his evil-starred heart pride! – if he reaps gains without justice and will not hold back impiety and his fingers itch him for untouchable things. When such things are done, what man will manage to shield his soul from the darts of God? When such deeds are held in honor, why should I honor the gods in the dance?” In this passage, Chorus warns the king of his arrogant and stubborn behavior. Yet at the beginning they supported Oedipus based on his past exploits and that he is best placed to repair their misfortunes. But over time, Oedipus’ behavior becomes more tyrannical, and the chorus becomes uncertain and questions what drives him, explaining that a man who pays no attention to justice and temples dedicated to deities risks incurring their anger and that a tragedy will occur if he does not change and no one will come to his aid. 

Lines 471-475 shows a slight importance and role that the chorus plays in this reading. The build up towards this scene is a plague has struck and the citizens are dying. Oedipus learns that this has happened because the death of a former king Laius needs to be avenged. The killer must be found and banished or executed. Teiresias is a prophet. He and Oedipus begin a conversation that turns into conflict and an exchange of words that increases the anger of Oedipus and Teiresias. He learns of the truth, though he is hesitant and unwilling to tell Oedipus. The chorus then intervenes and states, “We look at this man’s words and yours, my king, and we find both have spoken them in anger. We need no angry words but only thought how we may best hit the God’s meaning for us.” The chorus’ opinion takes into effect. They remind us readers and the king at the same time that even they know this argument and new found conflict is worthless and unnecessary, to focus on what his means for the people and to not speak words of anger but of understanding and solution.

The citizens of Thebes are the chorus in Oedipus the King, and they may be considered background voices as well as the jury in the community since they are listening to both sides of the narrative and even begin to question and confront some of their questions and views. The chorus is used to convey emotion, sentiments, opinions, and even to answer audience questions. (470)”We look at this man’s words and yours, my king, and we find both have spoken them in anger. We need no angry words but only thought how we may best hit the God’s meaning for us.” I chose this passage because it exemplifies the chorus’s thoughts and how honest they are; they are basically expressing that the King and Creon have both shared some words out of fury and pride at first, I felt as if although the citizens are loyal to the king, I felt as if the chorus was on Creon’s side as if they believed him until a certain point of time. I believe that the chorus provides the necessary back-and-forth to keep the play flowing.

The King of Thebes, Oedipus is a hero amongst many men. The king’s country was thought to come to an end, since Thebes was undergoing a plague. Oedipus sends his brother-in-law, Creon to ask a prophecy for advice. When the king’s brother returns from speaking to Apollo, Creon informs Oedipus that the plague was a curse by the gods. Lauis, the former king of Thebes was murdered, as a result, the gods plagued his country for the killer. Oedipus later on starts questioning citizens, including a blind prophet, Teiresias. The current king of Thebes may be a hero among many men, but he is suspected to be the murderer of the former king while trying to solve the murder mystery himself. “I forbid that man, whoever he be, my land, my land where I hold sovereignty and throne; and I forbid any to welcome him or cry him greeting or make him a sharer in sacrifice or offering to the Gods, or give him water for his hands to wash. I command all to drive him from their homes, since he is our pollution, as the oracle of Pytho’s God proclaimed him now to me. So I stand forth a champion of the God and of the man who died. Upon the murderer I invoke this curse—whether he is one man and all unknown, or one of many—may he wear out his life in misery to miserable doom!” (255-269). Presumably, this curse by the gods is affecting Oedipus as the current king of Thebes. In my opinion, for Oedipus to get where he is now, he murdered the former king Lauis. Oedipus hides behind messengers, citizens and prophets.

In the passage listed below, the chorus has just witnessed the argument between Oedipus and Teiresias the prophet. The have heard the prophecy that would ultimately destroy the reputation of Oedipus who is a hero to them. They adore Oedipus as their kind and savior, he solved the riddle of the Sphinx, he is at this time in the text trying to find the murder of the previous king. They cannot deny the accusations made by Teiresias either. This leaves them in a state of confusion and uncertainty. “I am in a flutter of foreboding”. They up until this point have had no reason to doubt the king. They question Teiresias’ wisdom, after all he’s only human. They will stand by their king unless some irrefutable proof is presented. The chorus is in a precarious position. Do they believe the hero or the prophet? Why would Teiresias lie? He was very confident in his accusations and did not want to say them at first. This point in the story is the beginning of the end of Oedipus’ glorious reputation. Line 564 – 594 “The augur has spread confusion, terrible confusion; I do not approve what was said nor can I deny it. I do not know what to say; I am in a flutter of foreboding; I never heard in the present nor past of a quarrel between the sons of Labdacus and Polybus, that I might bring as proof in attacking the popular fame of Oedipus, seeking to take vengeance for undiscovered death in the line of Labdacus. Truly Zeus and Apollo are wise and in human things all knowing; but amongst men there is no distinct judgement, between the prophet and me which of us is right. One man may pass another in wisdom but I would never […]