Essay Questions

How does Sophocles use the cave in “Philoctetes" to bring out the imagery of comfortability and sight?

Neoptolemus is sent by Odysseus to locate the Philoctetes’ cavern. The cave’s image illustrates how a human being is comforted on an uninhabited island. The cave offers the best place for one to take a nap during the day and at night. The author describes the cave as the bed of leaves. When it is hot outside, the cave offers a cool environment for man to sleep, “twin mouthed, such that in chilly times a man might sit in the sun, or the summer breeze might funnel through to ease the heat with sleep”.

The description of the cave paints an image for the reader to imagine how it looks like. Similarly, the reader is able to feel how comfortable the cave is because it offers an excellent environment for man to sleep in a deserted island.

How does the irony of betrayal manifest itself in the “Philoctetes” by Sophocles?

The behavior of Odysseus with reference to Philoctetes reveals the irony of betrayal. As the play begins, the reader gets an impression that Odysseus is an intelligent worrier but as the play progresses, his true character starts to come out. He turns out to be shrewd and devious towards those who trust him. For instance, he betrays Philoctetes who has always been loyal to him especially for the last ten years. Odysseus needs Philoctetes to win the war but later his deeds towards him show his betrayal capability. The reader concludes that the human mind is limited in matters concerning war.

What is the most prevalent theme in the play “Philoctetes” by Sophocles?

Recognition of pain is the most prevalent theme in the play. For instance, Philoctetes has suffered pain in his entire life. His foot has been paining for a long time. He has been patient that the pain would stop but that has not been the case. He recognizes that his pain is going to disappear someday because he believes that the foot will heal. Sometimes he is forced to abandon his duties to nurse the pain. For example, he declines to teach Neoptolemus lessons of Heracles' bow because he is in pain. In most instances, he overlooks opportunities but he is not complaining. However, despite his pain, he is ready to help Odysseus, which is a sign of gratitude.