Study Questions and Suggested Essay Topics
Electra is an especially complex play because of the moral ambiguity of the ultimate revenge. How does Sophocles's presentation of his characters enhance this complexity?
Discuss the role of the chorus in Electra and its shifting attitude toward Electra and the revenge.
How does Chrysothemis function within the play? Do we know Electra better because we have a sister with which to compare her?
What role does Apollo play in the tragedy? How important is the oracle?
Consider the deceptions present in Electra. Why does Electra allow Chrysothemis to go on at such length about the grave offerings? Why does Orestes allow Electra to suffer over his false death for so long?
What is the role of Pylades in Electra? When, during the play, is he present, and why?
Compare the interactions between Electra and Chrysothemis and between Electra and Clytemnestra? How are they similar? How are they different?
The Old Man is an important figure in the play. How does he function to assist the progression of the revenge? What is his role?
