Speech: "The Influences of Greek Culture on Sophocles' Oedipus"

I have to deliver a 15 minute speech with the topic "The Influences of Greek Culture on Sophocles' Oedipus". I want to start by getting my ideas down in essay form before translating it into a speech and making the powerpoint. I also need to include close reading of passages which relate to my topic.

I have made a quick brainstorm and came up the following:

- references to Gods and Goddesses
- Greeks worshipped many Gods
- polytheistic
- sphyinx
- monster sent by the Gods
- superstition
- pollution
- murder and incest violated normal and human law
- oracles
- this play was believable to its original audience because so many of its aspects were a part of Greek Culture

I've also started a first paragraph:

Oedipus puts a strong emphasis on Gods and Goddess of the time. Members of the Ancient Greek time believed strongly in external powers and were polytheistic. Theses powers weren't necessarily worshiped but more respected. Sophocles' play explores the common faith in that individuals were puppeteers of the Gods and their fate was already chosen for them by such powers.

But I'm worried I'm not heading in the right direction. I'd really appreciate some pointers in what I should look into. Also, I need to include close reading so any text examples come to mind, they'd be really really helpful. Thanks in advance.

Hello! I think that your opening paragraph should reach a more of a broad spectrum introduction. Although your speech is specifically surrounding this play and it's creator, 15 minutes is quite a space to fill. What I would do is start by speaking a bit on Greek mythology, gods and goddesses as whole, cultures, traditions, oddities,etc Then, work your way towards sharing all of the feedback you would like on how these customs may have influenced the play itself. Add some of your own sentiments, thoughts, beliefs, etc. Perhaps you could find ways to relate personally, (to fill time). All of the topics on your list are perfect and completely relevant and I would only further advise you to speak calmly, breathe a lot, don't underestimate the power of pausing after or in the middle of a statement for dramatic effect either!

Good job so far and good luck!

Well, at the beginning of my speeches, I usually point out some of the questions that I would be discussing in my speech, which relate to the core of my topic or argument. That helps the audience keep track of your speech. I'm not sure if you can do that here, but if you can, it would be great, I think.