Medea And Other Plays

Explore the gripping world of ancient Greek tragedy with 'Medea and Other Plays' by Euripides, expertly translated by Philip Vellacott. This collection features four compelling plays that showcase the intricate themes of betrayal, jealousy, and the dark consequences of human emotions. Delve into the complexities of flawed characters who defy societal expectations, illustrating Euripides' revolutionary approach to storytelling. The centerpiece, 'Medea,' unveils a harrowing tale of revenge as a scorned woman takes a terrifying action against her unfaithful lover. 'Hecabe' brings to life the heart-wrenching madness of the former queen of Troy, while 'Electra' illuminates a young woman's desperate quest for vengeance against her mother. Finally, 'Heracles' explores the depths of tragedy surrounding a hero’s quest for retribution against an evil king. With vivid characterizations and themes that resonate even today, this Penguin Classics edition is essential for literature enthusiasts and students of Greek drama alike. Discover the legacy of Euripides, who challenged the norms of his time with his profound insights into human nature. This trade paperback edition is perfect for readers seeking to enhance their collection of classical literature. Engage with these timeless tales and reflect on the moral dilemmas faced by these iconic characters. Secure your copy of 'Medea and Other Plays' now to experience the raw power and enduring relevance of Euripides' genius, and enjoy FREE shipping within New Zealand!

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780140441291
Format: Trade paperback (UK)
Year: 2000
Publisher: Penguin UK
Pages: 208


Description:
Four plays which exemplify his interest in flawed, characters who defy the expectations of Greek society, Euripides' Medea and Other Plays is translated with an introduction by Philip Vellacott in Penguin Classics.
The four tragedies collected in this volume all focus on a central character, once powerful, brought down by betrayal, jealousy, guilt and hatred. The first playwright to depict suffering without reference to the gods, Euripides made his characters speak in human terms and face the consequences of their actions. In Medea, a woman rejected by her lover takes hideous revenge by murdering the children they both love, and Hecabe depicts the former queen of Troy, driven mad by the prospect of her daughter's sacrifice to Achilles. Electra portrays a young woman planning to avenge the brutal death of her father at the hands of her mother, while in Heracles the hero seeks vengeance against the evil king who has caused bloodshed in his family.
Philip Vellacott's lucid translation is accompanied by an introduction, which discusses the literary background of Classical Athens and examines the distinction between instinctive and civilized behaviour.
Euripides (c.485-07 BC) was an Athenian born into a family of considerable rank. Disdaining the public duties expected of him, Euripides spent a life of quiet introspection, spending much of his life in a cave on Salamis. Late in life he voluntarily exiled himself to the court of Archelaus, King of Macedon, where he wrote The Bacchae, regarded by many as his greatest work. Euripides is thought to have written 92 plays, only 18 of which survive.
If you enjoyed Medea and Other Plays, you might like Aeschylus' The Oresteian Trilogy, also available in Penguin Classics.


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