Topics for the Essay over Oedipus

Choose ONE of the following to develop into a thoughtful essay on OEDIPUS.

Due Wednesday,  Nov. 6, 2013

1.     It is sometimes suggested that Oedipus is a mere plaything of the gods with no free will and no ability to choose his own fate. How would you argue against this view?

2.     The Greeks believed in moderation—“Nothing in excess”.  Edith Hamilton expands this, “Nothing that is vast enters into the life of mortals without a curse.”  What occurs in excess in Oedipus Rex?  What happens as a result?  What implications does Hamilton’s statement have for the twentieth century?  Can you think of any of the twentieth century’s vast discoveries that came with a curse?  Defend with historical examples.  Make sure you devote at least two body paragraphs to discussing the excess in Oedipus Rex.

3.     PRIOR APPROVAL FROM ME REQUIRED:  Compare and contrast a modern character or movie or television series with the character of Oedipus or the play, Oedipus.