View source for Medea (play)

== Introduction ==

"Medea" is an ancient Greek tragedy written by Euripides, based on the myth of [[Medea (mythology)|Medea]] and her revenge against her unfaithful husband, [[Jason (mythology)|Jason]]. The play was first produced in 431 BCE as part of the annual Athenian [[Dionysia|Dionysian festival]]. Euripides' "Medea" is a powerful exploration of passion, betrayal, and revenge, and remains one of the most frequently performed and studied Greek tragedies.

== Plot Summary ==

The play opens in [[Corinth]], where Medea and Jason have settled after their adventures with the [[Argonauts]]. Jason has abandoned Medea to marry [[Glauce]], the daughter of King [[Creon (king of Corinth)|Creon]]. Medea, devastated by Jason's betrayal, plots a terrible revenge. She pretends to make peace with Jason, sending Glauce a poisoned dress that kills her and Creon. In the climax of the play, Medea kills her own children to further punish Jason, before escaping to Athens in a chariot provided by her grandfather, the sun god [[Helios]].

== Characters ==

* '''Medea''': The protagonist of the play, a sorceress and former princess of [[Colchis]].
* '''Jason''': Medea's husband, who abandons her for Glauce.
* '''Glauce''': Daughter of Creon, Jason's new bride.
* '''Creon''': King of Corinth, father of Glauce.
* '''Aegeus''': King of Athens, who offers Medea sanctuary.
* '''Nurse''': Medea's confidante.
* '''Tutor''': The tutor of Medea's children.
* '''Chorus''': The women of Corinth, who comment on the action and Medea's plight.

== Themes ==

=== Revenge ===
Revenge is the central theme of "Medea." Medea's actions are driven by her desire to avenge Jason's betrayal. Her revenge is both personal and symbolic, targeting not only Jason but also his new bride and her father. The extremity of her actions, particularly the murder of her own children, highlights the destructive power of revenge.

=== Betrayal ===
Jason's betrayal of Medea is the catalyst for the play's events. His decision to marry Glauce is portrayed as a pragmatic choice, motivated by political ambition rather than love. Medea's sense of betrayal is compounded by her sacrifices for Jason, including leaving her homeland and committing crimes on his behalf.

=== Gender and Power ===
"Medea" explores the position of women in ancient Greek society. Medea's plight reflects the limited options available to women, who were often dependent on their husbands for social and economic security. Her actions challenge traditional gender roles, as she uses her intelligence and resourcefulness to exact revenge.

== Literary Analysis ==

=== Structure ===
"Medea" follows the traditional structure of a Greek tragedy, with a prologue, parodos, episodes, stasimon, and exodus. The play's structure serves to heighten the dramatic tension, with the chorus providing commentary and reflection on the unfolding events.

=== Language and Style ===
Euripides' language in "Medea" is characterized by its emotional intensity and rhetorical power. Medea's speeches are particularly notable for their eloquence and passion. The play's dialogue reflects the characters' psychological complexity and moral ambiguity.

=== Symbolism ===
The play employs various symbols to enhance its themes. The poisoned dress symbolizes the destructive power of Medea's revenge. The chariot of Helios represents divine intervention and Medea's connection to the gods. The children symbolize innocence and the future, making their murder all the more shocking.

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== Reception and Legacy ==

=== Ancient Reception ===
"Medea" was initially met with mixed reactions in ancient Athens. It won third prize at the Dionysia, indicating that it was not as well-received as some of Euripides' other works. However, its powerful themes and complex characters ensured its lasting impact.

=== Modern Interpretations ===
In modern times, "Medea" has been widely studied and performed. It is often interpreted through various lenses, including feminist, psychoanalytic, and postcolonial theories. The play's exploration of gender, power, and revenge continues to resonate with contemporary audiences.

== Influence on Later Works ==

"Medea" has influenced numerous works of literature, theater, and film. It has inspired adaptations and reinterpretations across different cultures and time periods. Notable adaptations include [[Jean Anouilh]]'s "Médée," [[Robinson Jeffers]]' "Medea," and [[Lars von Trier]]'s film "Medea."

== See Also ==

* [[Greek Tragedy]]
* [[Euripides]]
* [[Jason and the Argonauts]]
* [[Ancient Greek Theatre]]

== References ==

[[Category:Ancient Greek plays]]
[[Category:Tragedies]]
[[Category:Works by Euripides]]