36 pages • 1 hour read
SophoclesAjax
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Essay Topics
Contrast Odysseus and Ajax’s response to Athena. How does each’s stance reflect the kind of hero he is?
Why does Odysseus feel pity for Ajax, despite having thought of him as his enemy?
The Chorus asks to see Ajax, saying, “Perhaps when he sees me he’ll regain his self-respect” (56). Discuss what this means and how the Chorus believes this will help Ajax.
What is the significance of Teucer instructing Eurysaces to remain at his father’s body, holding it as a suppliant.
Discuss why Ajax and Teucer fear returning to their father.
Explain the meaning and significance of Ajax’s shield.
What do the “arms of Achilles” symbolize in the play (48)? Why does Ajax take their loss so hard?
Why does Teucer instruct Eurysaces to assume the position of a suppliant at his father’s body? Explore the significance of this moment in relation to Ajax’s shield.
What is the substance of Menelaus and Agamemnon’s argument for why Ajax should not be buried? How does Odysseus convince them to back down?
Related Titles
By Sophocles
