The Glories of Battle: Analyzing Stasimon 2 of Oedipus at Colonus

🔥The members of the chorus deliver an emotional ode praising the glories of battle.

💪The chorus expresses their unwavering support for Theseus and his righteous army.

👑The ode bursts with pride for Athens, despite the city's decline in power.

🌊The chorus vividly depicts the thrilling and energetic nature of battle, even though it is not shown on stage.

🎭Sophocles showcases his mastery of different writing styles, with the chorus's poetic language contrasting with the actors' conversational dialogue.

What is Stasimon 2 of Oedipus at Colonus about?

—Stasimon 2 is an ode delivered by the chorus in the play Oedipus at Colonus. It focuses on praising the glories of battle and expressing support for Theseus and his soldiers.

What is the significance of the chorus's language in the ode?

—The chorus's poetic language in the ode serves to create a vivid and evocative description of the excitement and energy of battle, contrasting with the conversational tone of the actors during the episodes.

Who is Theseus?

—Theseus is a legendary hero in Greek mythology and a prominent character in many plays. In Oedipus at Colonus, Theseus plays a crucial role in helping Oedipus and supporting him in his journey.

Why does the ode focus on Athens?

—The ode focuses on Athens as a way to evoke a sense of nostalgia and pride for the city's past glory. Despite Athens' decline in power during the time the play was written, the chorus celebrates the greatness of Athens.

What writing style does Sophocles showcase in Stasimon 2?

—Sophocles showcases his mastery of different writing styles in Stasimon 2. The chorus's poetic language contrasts with the actors' conversational dialogue, highlighting Sophocles' skill in adapting to different tones and rhythms.

00:10Stasimon 2 of Oedipus at Colonus starts with the chorus delivering an ode praising the glories of battle.

00:19The chorus expresses their unwavering support for Theseus and his soldiers, emphasizing their righteous army.

00:28The ode bursts with pride for Athens, despite the city's decline in power during the time the play was written.

00:39The chorus vividly depicts the thrilling and energetic nature of battle, even though it is not shown on stage.

01:00Sophocles showcases his mastery of different writing styles by contrasting the poetic language of the chorus with the conversational tone of the actors during the episodes.