Phèdre

Definition

Phèdre is a tragic play written by French playwright Jean Racine, first performed in 1677. It is based on the ancient Greek myth of Phaedra, the wife of Theseus, who falls in love with her stepson, Hippolytus. The play is a key example of French Neoclassical theatre, showcasing themes of passion, fate, and moral conflict, and is noted for its adherence to the principles of unity of time, place, and action.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Phèdre is widely regarded as one of Racine's masterpieces and exemplifies the height of French Neoclassical drama.
2. The play explores the destructive nature of love and obsession, leading to tragic consequences for its characters.
3. Racine’s use of alexandrine verse (a specific meter in poetry) in Phèdre enhances the emotional weight and lyrical quality of the dialogue.
4. The character of Phèdre represents the struggle between passion and morality, making her a complex figure in the context of tragic literature.
5. The play remains significant in modern theatre studies due to its exploration of psychological depth and its impact on later European drama.

Review Questions

• How does Racine's portrayal of Phèdre reflect the principles of Neoclassical theatre?
  • Racine's portrayal of Phèdre aligns closely with Neoclassical principles through its emphasis on unity of time, place, and action. The play unfolds within a single setting and time frame, which intensifies the emotional drama as characters confront their fates. Furthermore, Racine's structured use of language and adherence to classical themes—such as moral conflict and tragic downfall—reflect the movement's ideals, illustrating the tension between human desire and societal constraints.
• Analyze the role of fate in Phèdre and how it shapes the characters' decisions throughout the play.
  • Fate plays a crucial role in Phèdre, shaping characters' decisions and leading them toward inevitable tragedy. Phèdre's uncontrollable passion for Hippolytus reflects her struggle against an unyielding fate orchestrated by the gods. This notion of predestined outcomes creates a sense of helplessness among characters as they grapple with their desires versus moral obligations. Ultimately, Racine emphasizes that despite their best intentions, the characters are unable to escape the tragic consequences laid out by fate.
• Evaluate the impact of Phèdre on subsequent European drama and its relevance in contemporary discussions about love and obsession.
  • Phèdre has significantly influenced European drama by setting a standard for tragic storytelling that resonates through various literary movements. Its deep exploration of love, obsession, and moral conflict continues to inspire playwrights and filmmakers today. The psychological complexity of Phèdre's character invites modern audiences to examine themes of desire versus ethical responsibilities, making it relevant to contemporary discussions about relationships. By addressing timeless human struggles within its narrative framework, Phèdre remains a powerful lens through which to explore the darker aspects of love.

Related terms

Tragedy: A dramatic genre that typically deals with serious themes and often involves the downfall of a heroic character due to a tragic flaw or fate.

Neoclassicism:

An artistic movement characterized by a return to classical ideals and forms, emphasizing order, clarity, and restraint in contrast to the excesses of Baroque art.

Moral Conflict: A central theme in many literary works where characters face dilemmas between their desires and ethical responsibilities.