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.
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Lesson 10

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Lesson 12

Lesson Map

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