Classical Greek J292,05 June 2022 , OCR GCSE Past Papers with Mark Schemes

1. Electra’s Suffering and Isolation: Her physical decline, her reaction to Orestes’ presence, her disappointment in marriage, and her fear of Aegisthus’ control.

2. Orestes’ Role in the Tragedy: His reaction to Electra’s suffering, his emotional responses to Agamemnon’s dishonored burial, and his obligation to avenge his father.

3. The Villainy of Aegisthus and Clytemnestra: Aegisthus’ plan to weaken Electra, his mistreatment of Agamemnon’s memory, and Clytemnestra’s absence of maternal affection.

4. Themes of Fate and Revenge: The necessity of retribution in Greek tragedy, the moral dilemmas faced by Electra and Orestes, and the play’s portrayal of justice.

5. Euripides’ Language and Emotional Impact: How pity is created for Electra through her descriptions of hardship, how Aegisthus’ actions are framed as offensive, and the audience’s response to the tragic heroism of the siblings.

6. Character Evaluation of Electra and Orestes: The debate over their likability and whether their actions are justified or excessive within the framework of Greek tragedy.