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Writing Task #6
Oedipus Writing Task
Rough Draft Due:
Final Copy Due:
Turn it in Due Date:
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Thursday, April, 11, 2013
All essays must be submitted on turnitin.com and the final copy must be typed. Final copy
must be formatted according to guidelines in your writing contract. Please download
directions for formatting from my website if you do not have this information.
Choose one of the topics below:
1.
In an essay, discuss which of Oedipus’s choices have determined his destiny. Include
how Oedipus’s insistence on acquiring this knowledge affects your view of him as a
tragic hero. Make sure you include support for how these negative traits could be
considered part of Oedipus’s tragic flaw. One quote per body paragraph is required.
2.
The idea that humans fall because of their actions is fundamental to Greek tragedy, yet
much of what happened to Oedipus was foretold. In an essay, discuss how Oedipus’
fate was in part caused by his action and in part cause by the will of the gods. Use
examples from the play to support your points. One quote per body paragraph is
required.
3.
The Greek work hamartia literally means “to miss the mark” and is used to refer to a
tragic hero’s tragic flaw. The Greek philosopher Aristotle wrote that the tragic hero’s
change in fortune is caused by some mistake-not by any moral failing. In an essay,
explore Aristotle’s definition of tragic flaw by explaining how behavior that had served
Oedipus well in the past leads him to a tragic end in Oedipus the King. Describe
Oedipus’ strengths and weaknesses as part of your answer. One quote per body
paragraph is required.