1. Oedipus Rex Day 6 Episodes 2, 3 & 4: Plot Structure- Rising Action and Climax

2. Episode 2 Creon is offended by Oedipus' accusations.
They argue over the charge. Jocasta tries to intervene.
The Chorus advise restraint and Oedipus lets Creon go, though he declares him an enemy. Oedipus tells Jocasta the source of the dispute.
Jocasta tells the story of Laius' death, and Oedipus recognizes many details: but he was a lone killer, whereas a band of killers was reported.
Oedipus worries about the oracle; Jocasta denounces its veracity, adducing the prophesy about her son.

3. Episode 2 (continued) Stasimon 2 Characters
Chorus warns of danger and ignorance.
Ode to the sanctity of divine law.
The tyrant who ignores justice and reverence for the gods will fall.
The oracles must be true.
Oedipus
Jocasta
Creon
Chorus

4. Episode 3
A messenger arrives from Corinth announcing the death of Polybus and Oedipus' ascension.
He allays Oedipus' fear of the oracle (that he will marry his mother) by telling him of his true birth.
Over Jocasta's objections Oedipus vows to continue his search for the truth. Jocasta runs into the palace.

5. Episode 3 (continued) Stasimon 3 Characters
We will soon know the parentage of Oedipus.
Chorus wonders about Oedipus’s birth.
Jocasta
Messenger
Oedipus
Choragos

6. Episode 4
The shepherd arrives who exposed the infant of Laius and escaped when Laius was killed. Oedipus' parentage becomes clear. Oedipus rushes into the palace.

7. Episode 4 (continued) Stasimon 4 Characters
Chorus reflect on fall of Oedipus and frailty of human
Happiness is but an illusion, for even the great power and blessings of Oedipus have come to a fall. happiness.
Oedipus
Choragos
Messenger
Herdsman

8. Anticipating the “tragic fall”
What does Oedipus plan to do now?
How will Jocasta react to this news?
Is Oedipus still blind to his past?
Make a prediction as to how this may end.

10. Fortune/Prophecy
You may open your fortune (prophecy) and share it with your Lit Circle.
Discuss how fortune tellers (prophets/seers) can influence actions and behaviors.
Will your fortune influence your decisions?
Why did Oedipus let the prophecy influence him?
What is Sophocles teaching us?