Clytemnestra

Content Warning: This section of the guide contains descriptions of physical abuse, imprisonment, murder, infanticide, anti-gay bias, and attempted suicide.

Clytemnestra adjusts to her new life as Tantalus’s wife. She participates in spear training at the gymnasium, where she tries to maintain her focus despite being distracted by thoughts of her recent conversations with Tantalus about the role and freedom of Spartan women. During the training, Clytemnestra encounters a priestess of Artemis, who coldly reminds her that everyone is weak in the eyes of the gods. This encounter leaves Clytemnestra unsettled, especially as she recalls past instances of harsh discipline and retribution in Sparta.

Suddenly, Clytemnestra falls ill, experiencing intense nausea and sickness. Leda brings her to the kitchen, and Clytemnestra realizes that she is pregnant. This discovery marks the end of her physical training and the beginning of a new role. Tantalus, overjoyed at the news, informs Clytemnestra that he must return to Maeonia to prepare for their child’s arrival and ensure his kingdom’s stability. In his absence, Clytemnestra is left feeling isolated and uncertain about her future. Soon, Agamemnon and Menelaus of Mycenae, the sons of Atreus, arrive seeking refuge in Sparta and bring news of a brewing storm of political and personal turmoil.