Hippolytus

Definition

Hippolytus is a Greek tragedy written by the playwright Euripides that centers around the themes of passion, betrayal, and the consequences of human emotions. The play tells the story of Hippolytus, the son of Theseus, who is wrongfully accused of attempting to seduce his stepmother Phaedra, leading to tragic outcomes. This work is significant as it illustrates the complexities of love and desire, showcasing how they can lead to devastating consequences in both personal and familial relationships.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Euripides' 'Hippolytus' was first performed in 428 BCE and won first prize at the City Dionysia festival in Athens.
2. The play explores themes such as the conflict between rationality and passion, as Hippolytus is devoted to chastity and rejects the advances of Phaedra.
3. Phaedra's love for Hippolytus stems from a curse placed on her by Aphrodite, which highlights the influence of the gods in human affairs.
4. The tragic downfall of Hippolytus is caused by a misunderstanding that leads to his death, showcasing how communication failures can lead to irreversible consequences.
5. The play has been influential in both literature and drama, inspiring various adaptations and interpretations throughout history.

Review Questions

• How does Euripides use the character of Hippolytus to explore the theme of desire versus chastity in his tragedy?
  • Euripides presents Hippolytus as a character deeply committed to chastity and devoted to Artemis, the goddess of virginity. This commitment puts him at odds with Phaedra, who becomes infatuated with him due to Aphrodite's influence. The conflict between Hippolytus's rejection of desire and Phaedra's overwhelming passion illustrates the struggle between rational ideals and human emotions, ultimately leading to tragic consequences for both characters.
• Analyze the role of divine intervention in 'Hippolytus' and its impact on the characters' fates.
  • Divine intervention plays a critical role in 'Hippolytus', particularly through the actions of Aphrodite, who curses Phaedra with an uncontrollable desire for her stepson. This manipulation of human emotions serves as a catalyst for the tragedy that unfolds. The characters are caught in a web of divine wills, which questions their agency and highlights how mortals are often at the mercy of capricious gods. The tragic outcomes stem from this interplay between divine influence and human action.
• Evaluate how 'Hippolytus' reflects societal attitudes towards gender and sexuality in ancient Greece.
  • 'Hippolytus' provides a lens through which to evaluate ancient Greek views on gender roles and sexuality. The play portrays Phaedra as a victim of her desires, reinforcing societal expectations that women should remain chaste and submissive. Conversely, Hippolytus embodies masculine ideals of honor and self-control. The tragic consequences that arise from Phaedra's uncontrolled desire illustrate how societal norms dictated acceptable behavior for women while allowing men greater freedom. This complex portrayal invites reflection on how these themes resonate within contemporary discussions about gender dynamics.

Related terms

Euripides:

One of the three ancient Greek tragedians whose works have survived, known for his innovative approach to character development and emotional depth in plays.

Theseus: A heroic figure in Greek mythology who was the father of Hippolytus and a prominent character in many myths, often associated with Athens.

Phaedra: The wife of Theseus and the stepmother of Hippolytus, whose unrequited love for her stepson drives the tragic conflict in the play.