Question

In lines 164-165, what does the Chorus mean by saying “he … doomed them all to a very different fate”? Include pertinent details from preceding lines in your answer.

Answer 1

Answer with Explanation:

The Chorus means that the two brothers, Polynices and Eteocles, both died during their war against each other. They both wanted to take over Thebes but in the end they died in each other's hands.

The father of Polynices and Eteocles was "Oedipus." Owing to his sons disrespect for him, he cursed them by praying to Zeus that they both die. As it is said in the Chorus, "he hurled his fire and struck the man." The God of Ares also took control in the war by letting the brothers kill each other. As it is said in the Chorus, "Great war god Ares, assisted us."

So, this means that none of the brothers was able to take control of Thebes although Eteocles was able to gain the support of Thebes. In the end, the army of Polynices withdrew in the battle.