In Euripides'
"Phaedra," revenge plays a significant role in the tragic events that
unfold. The play explores the themes of passion, revenge, and the destructive
consequences of both. In this essay, I will discuss how "Phaedra" can
be seen as a revenge tragedy.
The character of Phaedra
seeks revenge against Hippolytus, her stepson, for his rejection of her
romantic advances. She accuses him of attempting to rape her, even though it is
a false accusation. This lie leads to the tragic death of Hippolytus, who is
killed by his own father, Theseus, as a result of his belief in Phaedra's false
accusation.
Phaedra's desire for
revenge is fueled by her passion and unrequited love for Hippolytus. She is
consumed by her desire for him, and his rejection of her causes her to lash out
in anger and frustration. She sees the false accusation as a way to get back at
him for his rejection and to satisfy her desire for revenge.
The consequences of Phaedra's
revenge are tragic. Hippolytus, who is innocent of the crime he is accused of,
suffers a terrible fate. He is killed by his own father, who is unable to see
past the false accusation and who believes that he is protecting his wife's
honor. The tragedy of the play lies in the fact that the characters are unable
to control their passions and desires, and their actions lead to devastating
consequences.
The play also explores the
societal norms and expectations surrounding revenge. In ancient Greece, revenge
was considered a natural and acceptable response to perceived slights or
insults. Phaedra's desire for revenge against Hippolytus is seen as a natural
response to his rejection of her. However, the consequences of her revenge are
severe, and the play serves as a warning against the destructive power of
revenge.
The character of Theseus
also seeks revenge against Hippolytus, although his desire for revenge is based
on a false accusation. He believes that his son has dishonored his wife and
seeks to punish him for his perceived crime. His desire for revenge blinds him
to the truth and leads to the tragic death of his son.
The play also explores the
concept of fate and how it can influence the characters' actions. The tragic
events of the play seem to be predestined, as the characters are unable to
escape their fate. Phaedra's desire for revenge and Hippolytus's rejection of
her are predetermined, and the tragic consequences of their actions are
inevitable.
In conclusion,
"Phaedra" can be seen as a revenge tragedy that explores the
destructive power of revenge and the tragic consequences that can arise from
it. The play emphasizes the importance of controlling one's passions and
desires and the danger of letting them consume one's actions. It also highlights
the societal norms and expectations surrounding revenge and the consequences of
violating these norms. Overall, "Phaedra" serves as a warning about
the dangers of revenge and the tragic consequences that can result from it.