This collection of four tragedies by Euripides delves into the lives of once-powerful characters who are undone by betrayal, jealousy, guilt, and hatred. Euripides, the first playwright to portray suffering without divine intervention, presents his characters in human terms, allowing them to confront the consequences of their actions. In “Medea,” a woman spurned by her lover takes horrific revenge by killing their children. “Hecabe” follows the former queen of Troy as she descends into madness over her daughter’s impending sacrifice. “Electra” tells the story of a young woman seeking vengeance for her father’s murder by her mother, while “Heracles” features the hero battling an evil king who has wreaked havoc on his family. Philip Vellacott’s clear translation is complemented by an introduction that explores the literary context of Classical Athens and the contrast between instinctive and civilized behavior.

Why You Should Read?

• Discover Euripides’ groundbreaking approach to portraying human suffering without divine influence.
• Engage with timeless themes of betrayal, revenge, and the consequences of human actions.
• Enjoy Philip Vellacott’s lucid translation, making these ancient tragedies accessible to modern readers.
• Perfect for readers interested in Greek literature, psychology, and the exploration of complex characters.