Oedipus Journal #2

Journal: How does the background information on Greek Theater and History inform your reading of Oedipus? Use specific examples to explore the connections between context and content.

There is usually only three main actors at one time (plus the Chorus occasionally) on the stage. Sophocles is the playwright who adds a third actor to plays. Dithyramb made up the choral hymn/rhythmic chant, in which 50 boys or men sang. In Sophocles play "Oedipus the King," these choral hymns are used. Examples: "The Chorus begins to chant," "Enter a CHORUS, the citizens of Thebes," and "Oedipus enters from the palace to address the CHORUS, as if addressing the entire city of Thebes." These choruses are used to represent the people of the city of Thebes.