Choephori

Aeschylus (c.525–c.456 BC), translated by Theodoridis, G., (contributor-contact-email)

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The Oresteia, a trilogy by Aeschylus from the 5th century BCE, comprises three Greek tragedies focusing on the House of Atreus. The sequence begins with Agamemnon’s murder by Clytemnestra, continues through Orestes’ killing of Clytemnestra, and concludes with Orestes’ trial, lifting the family’s curse and appeasing the Furies.

The Choephori or “Libation Bearers” is the second play in Aeschylus’ trilogy. Orestes, guided by Apollo, seeks vengeance against his mother Clytemnestra for killing his father Agamemnon. Accompanied by his cousin Pylades, he reunites with his sister Electra at Agamemnon’s grave. They plot to kill Clytemnestra and her consort Aegisthus. Orestes deceives Clytemnestra about his identity, leading to Aegisthus being left unguarded and providing the opportunity for his subsequent murder. Despite initially hesitating, Orestes follows Apollo’s orders and also kills Clytemnestra. He then flees, pursued by the Furies.

Author Details

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Theodoridis, G.,

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