Classical Greek J292,01 November 2021

1. Oedipus’ Tragic Fate and Self-Discovery | Jocasta’s attempt to prevent prophecy fulfillment, Oedipus’ upbringing in a foreign land, revelation of his true lineage, his accidental patricide, marriage to his mother, self-inflicted blindness.

2. Greek Grammar and Language Skills | Identification of noun cases, verb tenses, prepositions, and grammatical functions, derivation of English words from Greek roots, translation exercises from English to Greek.

3. Theban Resistance Against Sparta | Pelopidas’ and Epaminondas’ opposing initial responses to Spartan invasion, Pelopidas’ return to Thebes, assassination of Spartan collaborators, Epaminondas’ moral objections, their eventual alliance.

4. Strategic Warfare and Leadership | Epaminondas’ decision to train Theban youth, Pelopidas’ winter campaign, ethical concerns about surprise attacks, the successful liberation of Thebes from Spartan control.

5. The Rescue of Pelopidas and Thessalian Conflict | Pelopidas’ capture by the Thessalian king, failed Athenian rescue attempt, Epaminondas’ leadership in securing his release, Pelopidas’ revenge attack and heroic death.

6. Themes of Fate, Power, and Morality | Inevitable fulfillment of prophecies in Oedipus’ story, ethical dilemmas in war strategy, contrasts between heroism and political survival, honor and sacrifice in Greek historical and mythological narratives.