Orestes and Other Plays

Euripides' six plays, crafted during Athens' tumultuous conflict with Sparta, poignantly explore the futility of war through traditional legends. "The Children of Heracles" reflects contemporary Athenian society, while "Andromache" highlights women's roles in wartime. "The Suppliant Women" examines just versus unjust battles, and "Phoenician Women" delves into the fierce rivalry of Oedipus' sons. "Orestes" addresses the guilt from vengeance, and "Iphigenia in Aulis" critiques religious sacrifice and war's madness. Collectively, they present a timeless moral and political commentary.