Great Books I   Fall 2017

The Bacchae

"I'm only a man. I don't belittle the divine."

  December 4

Read the Entire Play Aloud

What is Dionysus’ agenda in coming to Thebes?

Why are women the first to become bacchanals?

What dualities are operating in this play? What do these dualities accomplish? What do they symbolize?

Who is the most tragic character in the work?

Where is the turning point in this work?

December 7

Read the Entire Play (again)

What is the thesis of this work? 

Why does Pentheus die? Why must he die? 

Which virtues and vices are demonstrated by Pentheus, Dionysus, Agave, Tiresias?

What lesson about the role of the gods in the lives of mortals is being taught by this play?

Whose character is most tragic?

  

Paper #3 is due December 14, 11:59 p.m.