ALLAMA IQBAL OPEN UNIVERSITY, ISLAMABAD
(Department of English Language and Applied Linguistics)
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Course: Classical Drama (9057)
Level: BS English
Semester: Spring, 2023
Please read the following instructions for writing your
assignments. (AD, BS, BEd, MA/MSc, MEd) (ODL Mode).
1. All questions are compulsory and carry equal marks but within a
question the marks are distributed according to its requirements.
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Total Marks: 100
Pass Marks: 50
ASSIGNMENT No. 1
(Units 1-4)
Q.1 What is the relationship between destiny and free will in
the play 'Oedipus Rex"? To what extent is Oedipus
architect of his own downfall?
(20)
Answer:
For ages, philosophers have disputed the link between fate and
free will. In the play Oedipus Rex, the subject of how much of
one's life is predestined and how much is up to human decision
is discussed. The drama tells the sad narrative of King Thebes,
who inadvertently murders his father and marries his mother,
thereby fulfilling a prophecy that was given to him before his
birth.
Oedipus Rex: Free Will and Destiny
In the drama Oedipus Rex, two competing forces—destiny and
free will—are shown. It is commonly accepted that the play
significantly incorporates the idea of fate or destiny. The
prophecy that Oedipus received before he was even born lays
the foundation for the terrible events that would transpire. Laius
and Jocasta sought to escape the prophecy by leaving their kid
on a mountain, but destiny had other plans, and the boy was
reared by a different family. He made an effort to ignore the
prophecy, but in the end, he fulfilled it, demonstrating the
inevitable nature of fate.
The play also explores the concept of free will, which is the
capacity for an individual to make decisions that are
unpredicted. Oedipus uses his free choice to flee from his
adoptive parents in order to escape carrying out the prophecy.
He also makes use of his free will by deciding to look into his
origins and, in doing so, learning the truth about himself and the
prophecy. His decisions ultimately brought him to ruin.
The drama Oedipus Rex makes the argument that people's lives
are influenced by both fate and free will. Even when
predestined occurrences cannot be prevented, a person's
decisions can influence the result. The play also makes the
argument that fate and free will are not incompatible. Within the
limits of fate, people can use their free will.
Oedipus as the Architect of His Own Downfall
The character who creates his own demise is shown in the play
Oedipus Rex. Oedipus' sad end was brought on by his own
deeds, choices, and character faults. He uses his free will, but
the decisions he makes bring him to ruin.
His haughtiness is one of Oedipus' character defects. He thinks
he has the knowledge and intelligence to address Thebes' issues
better than anybody else. He accuses Tiresias, the blind prophet,
of working with Creon to depose him, displaying his
haughtiness in the process. Because of his conceit, Oedipus is
unable to see the truth about his deeds and history, and as a
result, he is unable to comprehend that he is the one who killed
Laius.
Oedipus' rage is yet another weakness in his personality. When
Jocasta informs him of Laius's death and claims that he was the
killer, he becomes furious. He also loses his cool as Tiresias
holds back the prophecy's reality. Oedipus's short temper causes
him to act hastily, which ultimately leads to his demise.
The exercise of Oedipus' free will also played a role in his
demise. Even though Jocasta and Tiresias caution him against it,
he decides to look into the reality of his ancestry. He uses his
free will to flee Corinth rather than carry out the prophecy. But
his quest for the truth finally brings to his demise when he
learns the truth about his background.
Conclusion
The drama Oedipus Rex investigates the interaction between
fate and free will, in conclusion. Thebes' king is shown in the
play as a tragic figure who, accidentally killing his father and
being married to his mother, fulfills a prophesy that was made
about him before he was even born. It is implied throughout the
play that people's lives are influenced by both fate and free will.
While it is impossible to stop the predestined events from
happening, a person's decisions can influence how they turn out.
Additionally, the play implies that fate and free will are not
incompatible. Within the limitations of fate, individuals can use
their free will. Oedipus' sad end was brought on by his own
deeds, choices, and deficiencies in character. He uses his free
will, but the decisions he makes bring him to ruin. His
haughtiness, rage, and quest for the truth are all factors in his
demise. The drama Oedipus Rex serves as a warning on the
limitations of human understanding and the perils of pride and
haughtiness. It serves as a reminder that we need to be aware of
the effects that our decisions and deeds have.
Q.2 Discuss Oedipus Rex as a tragic character.
(20)
Answer:
One of the most well-known Greek tragedies of all time is
Oedipus Rex. The main character of Sophocles' play, Oedipus,
the King of Thebes, unintentionally kills his father and weds his
mother. The drama examines the intricate issues of destiny, free
will, and the pursuit of the truth. Oedipus is a tragic figure
because he is destined for tragedy, errs frequently during the
play, and experiences a catastrophic fall that finally brings about
his demise.
Because he is consigned to his fate, Oedipus is a sad figure. The
concept of fate, or the notion that one's future is predestined,
serves as the play's foundation. The inevitable
nature of Oedipus' fate is emphasized in Sophocles' portrayal of
him. Oedipus is raised by a shepherd after being abandoned on
a hillside after being born into a royal family.He learns from an
oracle as a young man that he will kill his father and wed his
mother.Oedipus is terrified by this prophecy and sets off on a
quest that takes him to Thebes, where he unintentionally carries
out the prophecy. No matter how hard he tries, he cannot
change his predetermined fate since it has already been decided.
Oedipus is a sad figure due to his inability to alter his destiny.
Oedipus is a sad figure as a result of the numerous errors he
commits during the play. Oedipus is an honorable ruler who
sincerely cares about his subjects. Oedipus sets out to identify
the source of the horrible curse plaguing Thebes and put a stop
to it.However, his pursuit of the truth causes him to commit a
number of errors that finally bring about his demise. His
constant search for the truth is his first error. He won't listen to
anyone since he is certain that he can unravel the mysteries of
the curse on his own.Because of his conceit, he is unaware that
he is the root of the curse. His second error is that he is not
self-aware. He ignores the fact that he is the son of Laius and
Jocasta. His unrestrained fury is his third error. Oedipus grows
enraged and abuses the seer Tiresias when he is charged with
killing Laius. His rage renders him oblivious to reality and
prevents him from understanding the true origin of the curse.
Oedipus is a sad figure because of his errors.
Last but not least, Oedipus is a tragic figure because he
experiences a catastrophic descent that finally results in his sad
demise. As Oedipus explores further and deeper into the secret
of the curse, his demise seems inevitable throughout the play.
He is unable to handle the revelation that he has unintentionally
carried out the prophecy and killed his father and wed his
mother when he learns the truth about his life.
He causes his own blindness, condemns himself to exile, and
eventually perishes alone and miserable. The play's sad
conclusion, Oedipus' failure to escape his fate, is the result of all
of his errors.
Oedipus is a tragic figure because he is destined for tragedy,
errs throughout the play, and experiences a tragic fall that
finally brings about his demise. The depiction of Oedipus by
Sophocles places a strong emphasis on the belief that fate is
inevitable and that no one can escape their fate. The errors of
Oedipus demonstrate how even the most sincere individuals
may bring about their own destruction and how the pursuit of
truth can occasionally result in our destruction. The sad
conclusion of Oedipus serves as a warning that everyone is
subject to the rules of fate and that no one can avoid the
repercussions of their deeds. The timeless classic Oedipus Rex
examines the complexities of human nature and the boundaries
of freedom.
Q. 3 What are the major themes of the play 'Oedipus Rex?
Discuss in detail.
(20)
Answer
One of the earliest and most famous pieces of Greek tragedy is
Sophocles' play "Oedipus Rex." The drama, which was written
in the fifth century BCE, tells the sad tale of Oedipus, a noble
king who discovers that he has accidentally slain his father and
wed his mother. The drama examines a number of subjects,
such as destiny, free choice, the search for the truth, and the
limits of human knowledge.
Fate
The fundamental topic of "Oedipus Rex" is fate. The drama
depicts fate as an unavoidable force that governs its characters'
lives. The Oracle of Delphi foretold that Oedipus, the play's
main character, would kill his father and wed his mother.
Oedipus finally fulfills the prophecy despite his attempts to
escape it, demonstrating that fate is irresistible.
In the drama, fate is portrayed as an impersonal power that is
beyond human control. It is portrayed as a force that controls
the progression of events and dictates how people's lives turn
out. The drama makes the argument that even the most
illustrious and powerful people are vulnerable to fate. Oedipus
is a good example of this principle since he is unable to escape
his fate despite his power and knowledge.
The play also implies that fate is a punishing force that seeks to
punish those who try to resist it. In trying to avoid the prophecy,
Oedipus unknowingly contributes to his own demise. In an
apparent act of self-punishment for his arrogance and attempt to
change his destiny, he blinds himself after understanding his
errors.
Free Will
The drama "Oedipus Rex" tackles the notion of free will even if
fate is a major element. Even in the face of circumstances that
appear unavoidable, the play argues that people have the power
to decide what to do and control their own fate. The play makes
the argument that a person's decisions have the power to either
affirm or change their destiny.
Oedipus is said to be able to determine his own fate, according
to the play. Only as a result of Oedipus' decisions does the
prophecy of the Oracle of Delphi come to pass. The prophecy
might not have come true if he had avoided doing specific
actions, like abandoning Corinth or murdering the stranger on
the way. This implies that, despite his inability to entirely
change his destiny, Oedipus has some power over it.
The play also makes the point that people's decisions have an
impact. The terrible results of Oedipus' actions cause him to fail
and his family to be destroyed. Even though fate plays a part in
people's lives, the play makes the case that people must be
accountable for their decisions and actions.
In search of the truth
The quest for truth is a major subject in "Oedipus Rex." The
play examines the theme that truth is frequently elusive and
hard to ascertain and yet it is fundamental to human life.
According to the play, seeking the truth may be both
illuminating and damaging.
The play's storyline is driven by Oedipus' quest for the reality of
his history. He is motivated to learn the truth about who he is
and the circumstances of his birth because he thinks that by
doing so, he would gain control and insight. However, his quest
for the truth finally brings him to ruin.
The play's storyline is driven by Oedipus' quest for the reality of
his history. He is motivated to learn the truth about who he is
and the circumstances of his birth because he thinks that by
doing so, he would gain control and insight. However, his quest
for the truth finally brings him to ruin.
Knowledge of Humanity's Limitations
Oedipus Rex makes a big deal out of the issue of human
knowledge's
limitations.
According
to
the
play,
our
understanding of the universe and the factors that influence
people's lives is constrained. A further implication of the play is
that
there
are
complexity
and
mysteries
that
are
incomprehensible to humans.
A key illustration of the limits of human understanding is
Oedipus' incapacity to comprehend the actual nature of his
history. Despite his wit and will, he is unable to grasp the
gravity of his predicament, and in the end, he blinds himself out
of despair.
The piece makes the case that knowledge's limitations may be
both discouraging and liberating. Oedipus' failure to
comprehending his circumstances ultimately causes him to
perish, yet it also grants him a certain amount of freedom. He is
able to transcend his human limits and come to a form of
spiritual enlightenment by acknowledging his limitations and
the causes that determine his fate.
Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex" covers a number of topics, such as
fate, free choice, the search for the truth, and the limits of
human knowledge. The play implies that while fate is an
unavoidable force that governs the lives of its characters, people
also have the power to choose their actions and determine their
future. The play makes the argument that seeking the truth is
crucial to human existence but that it can also result in
catastrophe.
The play also makes the argument that there are secrets and
intricacies that are beyond the knowledge of humans, and that
this limits our ability to understand the universe and the forces
that create our existence. The drama offers a compelling and
melancholy examination of the human condition overall.
Q.4 Discuss the elements of Renaissance Humanism in 'Dr
Faustus".
(20)
Answer
The Renaissance was a significant era in European history
marked by the resurgence of classical culture in literature, art,
and study. All areas of life, including philosophy, politics, and
religion, underwent significant development and advancement
during this time. Humanism, which valued people and their
skills over supernatural intervention, was one of the most
significant parts of Renaissance thinking.
Renaissance Humanism
A
cultural
and intellectual movement known as the
Renaissance, humanism began in Italy in the 14th century and
expanded to the rest of Europe by the 16th. Ancient Greek and
Roman literature was rediscovered, reviving classical education.
Humanism promoted the belief that people were capable of
logical reasoning and self-improvement, valuing human beings
and their skills over supernatural intervention. Humanists held
that education was crucial to the advancement of both society
and the individual. They promoted the study of
ancient literature, philosophy, and art as a way to better oneself
and comprehend the world.
Elements of Renaissance Humanism in Dr Faustus
1.
Individualism
The core of Renaissance humanism was the idea of
individuality. Humanists held that every person had the capacity
for creativity and self-expression in a way that was special to
them. They supported the concept that people should use their
own judgment, challenge authority, and look out for their own
interests. Faustus is shown as a very independent figure in Dr.
Faustus. He disregards conventional knowledge and pursues
knowledge by his own ways. He wonders about the limits of his
own life and longs to be more than a mere human. He fights for
his freedom and won't accept the limitations society has set on
him.
2. Rationalism
Rational thought and scientific investigation were valued in the
humanism of the Renaissance. A greater comprehension of the
cosmos and the human condition was something that humanists
thought might be attained via the pursuit of knowledge.
Dr. Faustus depicts a character named Faustus who rejects
conventional educational methods in favor of learning through
his own ways. His search for a deeper knowledge of the
universe leads him to magic and the occult. His quest for
knowledge, however, ultimately proves to be misplaced as he
loses focus on the fundamental essence of knowledge after
becoming overwhelmed by his own desires.
3. Secularism
The primacy of the church was displaced by a more secular
understanding of the world during the Renaissance. Humanists
held the view that knowledge and comprehension could be
gained independently of divine revelation. In Dr. Faustus,
Faustus rejects religious doctrine and uses magic to get
knowledge instead. He prefers to use his own resources to
become wealthy and powerful rather than depending on
heavenly assistance. However, because he is unable to find
fulfillment in his own endeavors, his rejection of the church
finally brings about his demise.
Education and Humanism
Humanists held that education was crucial to the advancement
of both society and the individual. They promoted the study of
ancient literature, philosophy, and art as a way to better oneself
and comprehend the world. In Dr. Faustus, Faustus rejects
conventional educational methods in favor of seeking
knowledge on his own terms. But his lack of education
ultimately proves fatal since it prevents him from realizing the
actual nature of the forces he has unleashed.
5. The Individual's Role
The person was viewed as the focus of all action throughout the
Renaissance. Humanists held that everyone should have the
freedom to follow their own interests and that they should have
the authority to control their own fate. In the novel Dr. Faustus,
Faustus is shown as a person who values independence above
all else. He opposes the constraints imposed on him by society
and longs to transcend the limitations of human existence. But
when he is overwhelmed by his own ambition, his quest for
strength and knowledge finally brings him to ruin.
Dr. Faustus is a drama that perfectly captures many of the
fundamental principles of Renaissance humanism, such as
individuality, rationality, secularism, humanism and education,
and the importance of the individual. The play by Christopher
Marlowe examines the boundaries of human knowledge and
ambition as well as the perils of eschewing conventional
methods of education. In the end, Faustus's failure serves as a
warning about the perils of hubris and the limitations of
individualism.
Q.5
Discuss the character of Mephistopheles in detail.
(20)
Answer
Mephistopheles is one of literature's most well-known figures.
He is the devil himself, a fallen angel who frequently appears
as the bad guy in literary works. Mephistopheles is a renowned
figure in German literature, best known for being
the antagonist of Faust by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.
Mephistopheles, a crafty and shrewd devil in this drama,
tempts Faust to sell his soul for knowledge, power, and
pleasure.
Appearance
Usually, Mephistopheles is depicted as a gloomy, evil
character. According to Goethe's description of him in Faust
(line 1332), he is a monster of the night and is blacker than
pitch. He frequently appears with long, thin beard, piercing
eyes, and is dressed in all-black attire and a cloak.
Mephistopheles is depicted as either a dapper, well-dressed
gentleman or as a monster with horns and a tail in different
versions of the tale. However, Mephistopheles always emits a
sense of evil and danger, regardless of his various faces.
Personality
The persona of Mephistopheles is nuanced and deep. On the
one hand, he is crafty, shrewd, and dishonest. He deceives
Faust into selling his soul by appealing to his brains and
cunning and promising him knowledge, power, and pleasure
in return. Mephistopheles is an expert at disguising himself,
and he may adopt any form to further his objectives.
Additionally, he has a strong persuasive ability and can get
Faust to do things that he otherwise wouldn't.
Mephistopheles is a villain, yet he is also a sympathetic figure.
He is a fallen angel that was exiled from heaven for his
defiance of the Almighty. He strives to sow suffering and
hopelessness wherever he goes because he is angry and
spiteful against both God and others. He's separated from his
previous home and left to explore the planet aimlessly, which
makes him feel lonely and alone. So, in an effort to give his
life purpose, he seeks out Faust, intending to exploit him to
serve as a tool in his ongoing conflict with God.
Motivations
The reasons for Mephistopheles are intricate and varied. He
tempts
Faust
into
wrongdoing
and
guides
him
into
self-destruction in an effort to corrupt and destroy him. He does
this in part out of ill will and sadism, wanting to cause harm and
suffering to others in an effort to ease his own agony. In an effort
to push his influence on others and subjugate them to his will, he
also does it out of a desire for power and control.
Mephistopheles also has more compassionate intentions, though,
at the same time. He is a fallen angel who was expelled from
heaven and separated from his own kind. Because of his isolation
and loneliness, he looks for friends and a purpose for his life. In
Faust, he sees a guy who shares his need for knowledge and
purpose in life, and he intends to utilize him as a method of
discovering his own.
Role in Faust
In Goethe's Faust, Mephistopheles is one of the main characters.
The enemy tempts Faust into selling his soul and leads him on a
road of self-destruction. Mephistopheles is a shrewd and
intellectual character who manipulates Faust into carrying out his
will through cunning and intelligence. Mephistopheles, on the
other hand, is a complicated and multidimensional figure with
his own goals and objectives. Being cut off from his old home
and a fallen angel, he is looking for purpose and company in his
own life. As a result, he recognizes a kindred spirit in Faust—a
guy who is similarly looking for knowledge and purpose in life.
He wants to utilize Faust to fulfill his own goals and exercise
his power on the mortal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mephistopheles is one of literature's most
well-known and fascinating figures. He is a complicated and
varied figure who is brilliant and cunning as well as lonely and
alone. His most famous appearance is in Goethe's Faust, which
uses him as the adversary.
Mephistopheles tempts Faust in this drama to trade his soul for
knowledge, power, and pleasure. He is an expert at tricking
people and manipulating situations, and he employs cunning and
wit to his advantage. Mephistopheles is a villain, yet he is also a
sympathetic figure who is looking for friendship and significance
in his own life. One of the most interesting characters in
literature, he has complicated, multidimensional reasons and
wants.