48
Play • Fiction
Ancient Greece
458
Adult
15-18 years
In Eumenides by Aeschylus, Orestes seeks purification after killing his mother Clytemnestra to avenge his father. Pursued by the Furies, he turns to Apollo and then Athena for help. Athena organizes a trial in Athens, where Apollo argues for Orestes's acquittal successfully. The Furies, initially enraged, are pacified by Athena and transformed into the Eumenides, protectors of justice.
Mysterious
Dark
Suspenseful
Contemplative
Emotional
Aeschylus’ Eumenides is lauded for its rich examination of justice, divine intervention, and societal order. Critics appreciate its profound philosophical themes and dramatic culmination of the Oresteia trilogy. However, some find its dense Greek mythology challenging and its pacing uneven. Overall, it remains a pivotal work in classical literature, praised for its thematic depth and dramatic intensity.
Readers who enjoy ancient Greek tragedies, themes of justice and fate, and moral dilemmas will appreciate Aeschylus' Eumenides. Fans of works like Sophocles' Oedipus Rex and Shakespeare’s Hamlet will find its exploration of divine influence on human affairs compelling.
48
Play • Fiction
Ancient Greece
458
Adult
15-18 years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.