Tragedy and the Sophists

Question 1

Which poet is most influenced by contemporary philosophy in Greek tragedy?

Answer 1

Euripides

Euripides is noted for incorporating the jargon of the Sophists into his plays.

Question 2

What word does Euripides frequently use in his works to denote ‘wise’?

Answer 2

Sophos

The term ‘Sophos’ reflects the influence of Sophist thought in his tragedies.

Question 3

In Euripides’ play Orestes, what leads to Orestes being condemned to death?

Answer 3

Intervention of a clever speaker

This speaker argues on behalf of anyone who pays him, showcasing moral ambiguity.

Question 4

In Hippolytus, which character manipulates Phaedra into revealing her secret?

Answer 4

The Nurse

The Nurse’s actions reflect Sophist manipulation and moral complexity.

Question 5

What rhetorical strategy does Hippolytus use to appeal to sympathy during his trial?

Answer 5

Claims he is not a skilled public speaker

This strategy is part of the tricks taught to aspiring public speakers.

Question 6

Which argument does Hippolytus use to assert the implausibility of raping Phaedra?

Answer 6

Argument from probability

This argument is presented in the trial scene between Theseus and Hippolytus.

Question 7

Fill in the blank: In Hippolytus, Hippolytus threatens to break his oath of silence by stating, ‘It was my tongue that swore it. No oath binds my ______.’

Answer 7

heart

This statement illustrates his justification for morally questionable actions.

Question 8

True or False: Euripides’ tragedies reflect a keen interest in clever but morally questionable arguments.

Answer 8

True

This theme is evident in various plays, including Orestes and Hippolytus.