Day 4

Electra by Sophocles Lesson Plan

Discussion of Thought Questions

  1. 1

    What are the significant differences in Sophocles' treatment of Orestes' matricide compared to Aeschylus' portrayal in the Oresteia, and why is this treatment considered significant in the context of the play?

    Firstly, in Aeschylus' version, Electra quietly retreats indoors at the moment of the murder, seemingly suggesting that Sophocles' Electra might follow suit. She delivers what appears to be a final prayer, reminiscent of one found in the Oresteia. Subsequently, she enters the palace. Up to this point, the parallels with Aeschylus' version are apparent. The Chorus, just as they do in Aeschylus, commence an ode concerning justice and the hounds, symbolizing the...

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