The Brothers' Quarrel
Oedipus's sons Eteocles and Polynices both wanted the throne. They agreed to reign one year each. After Eteocles's year, he refused to give up power and drove Polynices out. Polynices gathered seven kings at Argos to attack Thebes. They stopped at Nemea to celebrate games (origin of Nemean Games). After a seven-year siege, the brothers agreed to settle it by duel but killed each other. Their ashes were placed in separate urns because even their remains wouldn't mingle.
The Text
What You'll Learn
Comprehension
Identifies Eteocles and Polynices as Oedipus's quarreling sons
Cause & Consequence
Explains why war came: Eteocles broke his promise
Significance
Explains the importance of keeping promises
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