Orestes

Definition

Orestes is a significant figure in Greek mythology, known as the son of Agamemnon and Clytemnestra. His story revolves around themes of revenge, justice, and the struggle against fate, particularly after he returns home to avenge his father's murder by killing his mother. Orestes' actions and their consequences highlight the moral dilemmas faced by heroes in Greek narratives, particularly during their returns from war.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Orestes was central to the story in Aeschylus' trilogy 'Oresteia', which chronicles his journey from vengeance to eventual redemption.
2. Upon returning to Argos, Orestes is driven by the command of the god Apollo to seek revenge for his father's death, showcasing the influence of divine intervention in Greek myths.
3. His act of killing Clytemnestra leads to severe repercussions, as he is haunted by guilt and pursued by the Furies, representing the moral consequences of his actions.
4. Orestes' struggles culminate in his trial in Athens, which symbolizes the transition from personal vengeance to established justice in society.
5. Ultimately, Orestes is acquitted with the help of Athena, marking a significant shift in how justice is perceived in Greek culture.

Review Questions

• How does Orestes' journey illustrate the conflict between personal vengeance and societal justice in Greek mythology?
  • Orestes' journey emphasizes the tension between personal motives for revenge and the need for societal justice. Initially driven by a desire to avenge his father's murder, he faces severe consequences for his actions after killing Clytemnestra. His story reveals how individual desires can conflict with moral laws, leading to turmoil until a system of justice is established through his trial, reflecting broader themes within Greek culture.
• What role do the Furies play in Orestes' narrative, and how do they embody themes present in Greek tragedies?
  • The Furies play a pivotal role in Orestes' narrative as they represent vengeance and the moral ramifications of his act of killing his mother. They pursue him relentlessly, illustrating the theme of guilt and punishment that permeates Greek tragedies. Their presence serves to highlight the struggle between personal obligation to family and the overarching laws of morality and justice that govern society.
• Evaluate how Orestes' trial represents a shift in concepts of justice within ancient Greek society, especially regarding divine vs. human law.
  • Orestes' trial signifies a critical transition from personal revenge to a structured legal system in ancient Greek society. It contrasts divine retribution with human justice; while Orestes initially acts under Apollo's command, his acquittal by Athena marks a new era where societal laws take precedence over familial loyalty. This evolution reflects changing attitudes towards justice and morality, suggesting a move towards rationality and civic order rather than chaos driven by individual vendettas.

Related terms

Electra:

Electra is Orestes' sister, who plays a crucial role in the plot of vengeance against their mother, Clytemnestra, and her lover Aegisthus.

Furies: The Furies are mythological figures representing vengeance, who pursue Orestes for killing his mother, embodying the conflict between familial loyalty and moral law.

Chorus: The Chorus in Greek tragedy often reflects the moral and emotional state of the characters, providing commentary on Orestes' actions and the consequences of revenge.