新风尚 大学实用英语 综合教程 unit.pptVIP

* Background Knowledge Reading Skills Text Understanding Focus on Language Oedipus Background Knowledge 1 1 Background Knowledge Oedipus Oedipus is the son of King Laius and Queen Jocasta of Thebes. Because of the oracle that he would kill his father and marry his mother, he was left on a hillside, but was rescued and brought up as the son of king of Corinth. Hearing the oracle, Oedipus left Corinth. While traveling he met and killed Laius, without recognizing him. 1 Background Knowledge 1 Oedipus After ridding Thebes of the Sphinx, he married Jocasta and became king, unwillingly fulfilling the oracle. Later realizing the truth of his birth, he stabbed out his eyes and went into exile with his daughter Antigone as guide. His story was used by Sophocles in “Oedipus Rex” and “Oedipus at Colonus”. 1 Background Knowledge 1 When we read, it is almost certain that we will come across new words. Shall we consult the dictionary every time? Not necessarily. In fact, there are many ways to find out the meanings of new words. You may start from word formation. That is to say, you may take the basic part of the word, and get its meaning from the prefix, suffix, or the parts that combine to form the words. Finding out the Meaning of Words Reading Skills 1 1 Another way is to make use of the clues given by the context. In other words, the text itself may explain the meaning of a certain word by using expressions similar in meaning or opposite in meaning. The text may also use simpler words to define it or to give examples to illustrate the point. Finding out the Meaning of Words Reading Skills 1 1 Try to figure out the meanings of the words in italics in the following sentences in the text. You should give answers in both English and Chinese. 1) …I have heard this question: from an English major, from a stranger on the street, …, from a dark shadow beside me one evening at an English corner. (Para. 1) Th