- 1. The 'Women of Trachis' is a poignant and tragic play by the ancient Greek playwright Sophocles, exploring themes of love, jealousy, and the consequences of human actions. Set in the town of Trachis, the narrative centers around Deianeira, the wife of the formidable hero Heracles (Hercules), who, in her desperation to secure her husband's love and loyalty, unwittingly falls into a devastating chain of events. As the plot unfolds, Deianeira learns of Heracles' infidelity and decides to use a poisonous garment—a gift of love—to reclaim his affection, believing it to be a means of ensuring his devotion. However, her misguided intentions lead to unforeseen tragedy, as the garment burns Heracles, ultimately resulting in his demise. The play is a masterful exploration of female agency, revealing Deianeira's emotional turmoil and the societal expectations placed upon women in a patriarchal culture. Sophocles deftly examines the complexities of human relationships and the often tragic outcomes of our choices, evoking profound empathy for his characters while simultaneously prompting the audience to reflect on the nature of love and the inherent vulnerabilities of the human condition.
What tragic event befalls Hercules in the play?
A) He is betrayed by friends
B) He is poisoned by a robe
C) He sacrifices himself
D) He is killed by a monster
- 2. Who does Deianira believe she can win back Hercules's love with?
A) A love potion
B) A song
C) A feast
D) A new robe
- 3. What motivates Deianira to use the potion?
A) Her fear of losing Hercules
B) Her desire for power
C) A prophecy
D) Jealousy of another woman
- 4. How does Hercules initially react to the poison?
A) He feels fine
B) He is in agony
C) He laughs
D) He becomes angry
- 5. What does Deianira ultimately feel for Hercules towards the end?
A) Guilt
B) Hatred
C) Indifference
D) Relief
- 6. What happens to Deianira’s character at the end of the play?
A) She becomes a queen
B) She commits suicide
C) She flees Trachis
D) She marries again
- 7. At the end of the play, where does Hercules ascend to?
A) The city of Trachis
B) Mount Olympus
C) The underworld
D) A mighty fortress
- 8. In what city does the play take place?
A) Trachis
B) Troy
C) Thebes
D) Athens
- 9. What lesson is conveyed about love in 'Women of Trachis'?
A) It always triumphs
B) It can lead to destruction
C) It guarantees happiness
D) It is unconditional
- 10. What role do the Chorus play in the tragedy?
A) They represent the gods
B) They provide commentary and reflection
C) They fight alongside Hercules
D) They act as protagonists
- 11. What is the tone of 'Women of Trachis'?
A) Optimistic and cheerful
B) Heroic and noble
C) Tragic and somber
D) Light and comedic
- 12. What is the role of Lichas in the story?
A) Oracle
B) Warrior
C) Messenger
D) Advisor
- 13. Who brings news of Hercules' actions to Deianira?
A) Theseus
B) Lichas
C) Nerissa
D) Iphicles
- 14. What is a significant symbol in the play?
A) A throne
B) A sword
C) A flower
D) The poisoned robe
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