Short Fiction: A Study of Genre

Lesson 11
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ELA

Unit 4

11th Grade

Lesson 11 of 15

Objective


Analyze Sophocles’s message about humanity as he develops it in Oedipus the King.

Readings and Materials


  • Play: Oedipus Rex by Sophocles (from The Theban Plays)  — Whole play

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Target Task


Writing Prompt

What does it mean to be human and to live a good life if our destinies are truly in the hands of fate?

Key Questions


  • To what degree is Oedipus’s life determined by the fate assigned him by the oracle?
  • Are there other characters in the play who seem more in charge of their own fates? Why or why not?
  • To what degree do you believe in fate and predetermination? What about free will? Do we have the power to control our own destinies? Did Oedipus? Is there a way he could have evaded his fate?

Notes


  • On the first day of this lesson, students should discuss and debate the question for today and then begin writing in response to the question.
  • On the second day of this lesson, students should complete their essay responses.

Next

Analyze the author’s use of the character of the old man to develop the theme of humanity.

Lesson 12
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