1. OEDIPUS REX

2. - What is the purpose of myth? - How does the myth of Oedipus continue to be culturally relevant?

3. EXILE= the oldest form of human punishment

4. MYTH A fictional story based on some truth Upholds social laws and spreads values Tells what NOT to do (and what will happen if you do it) Offers an explanation of the world around us Is enforced and remembered with rituals or traditions

5. Hero Usually male (patriarchal society) Usually a king or leader Possesses socially desirable qualities Also possesses a TRAGIC FLAW or HAMARTIA The TRAGIC HERO experiences downfall because of this flaw; the successful hero overcomes his flaws

6. Epic Hero Cycle 1.The hero is charged with a quest 2.He encounters obstacles or challenges 3.He receives help 4.He travels to a strange new world 5.He ALMOST dies or gives up… 6.…but he triumphs 7.And returns home safely.

7. The 20 th Century: The Age of Secularism After World War I, society largely rejected social values…

8. But what to worship now?

9. But how to spread myth in Ancient Greece? Travel is dangerous, thus uncommon Geography is challenging No books (paper is expensive) Most people cannot read

10. Sophocles and Greek Drama Theatre became the locus from which myth was spread Actors wore masks to indicate characters Action happened off stage Sophocles dramatized and retold common myths Promotes TOTEMS and teaches TABOOS