Phèdre

Definition

Phèdre is a character from classical tragedy, most famously depicted in the works of playwrights like Euripides and Racine, representing intense human emotions such as love, desire, and guilt. This character often embodies the themes of forbidden love and tragic downfall, reflecting the moral and philosophical concerns prominent in neoclassical tragedy, where fate and personal flaws lead to inevitable suffering.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Phèdre's story is rooted in Greek mythology, focusing on her unrequited love for her stepson Hippolytus, which drives the plot towards tragedy.
2. The character is often depicted as a victim of her own passions, illustrating the neoclassical emphasis on human emotion clashing with societal norms.
3. Phèdre's internal struggle reflects themes of guilt and shame, highlighting the moral complexities faced by individuals in neoclassical tragedies.
4. The dramatic tension in Phèdre's narrative often results from her conflicting desires and the consequences of her actions, leading to tragic outcomes.
5. In neoclassical adaptations, Phèdre serves as a symbol of the destructive nature of unchecked passion, making her a key figure in discussions about morality and ethics in literature.

Review Questions

• How does Phèdre exemplify the traits of a tragic hero within neoclassical tragedy?
  • Phèdre exemplifies the traits of a tragic hero through her noble lineage and intense internal conflict. Her unquenchable desire for Hippolytus, which is deemed forbidden by societal standards, showcases her tragic flaw—her inability to control her passions. This ultimately leads to her downfall, embodying the neoclassical theme that even noble characters can be brought low by their flaws.
• Discuss the role of guilt and shame in Phèdre's character development and how these emotions drive the plot.
  • Guilt and shame are central to Phèdre's character development, as her forbidden love for Hippolytus creates an internal turmoil that propels the narrative. These emotions lead her to manipulate circumstances and individuals around her in an attempt to reconcile her desires with societal expectations. The conflict generated by these feelings not only intensifies her personal suffering but also sets off a chain reaction that results in tragic consequences for herself and others, highlighting the moral complexities in neoclassical tragedy.
• Evaluate how Phèdre's portrayal has evolved from its original Greek roots to its neoclassical interpretations, particularly regarding themes of morality and desire.
  • Phèdre's portrayal has evolved significantly from its Greek origins to neoclassical interpretations, reflecting changing views on morality and desire. In Greek tragedies, she is often seen as a tragic victim of fate, whereas neoclassical adaptations emphasize individual moral responsibility and societal implications of her desires. The focus shifts to the consequences of unchecked passion and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals, making Phèdre a complex character who resonates with audiences grappling with issues of love, guilt, and societal expectations.

Related terms

Tragic Hero: A central character in a tragedy who possesses noble qualities but is ultimately brought down by a tragic flaw or mistake.

Catharsis: The emotional release experienced by the audience as they witness the suffering and downfall of the tragic hero.

Hubris:

Excessive pride or self-confidence that often leads to the downfall of a character in classical tragedies.