Showing results for "sophocles" in Literary History & Criticism

This Very Short Introduction introduces the life, work, and influence of one of the greatest dramatists of all time, Sophocles the Athenian. Placing his plays within their historical context, and explaining the conventions of ancient Greek tragic theatre, Edith Hall spotlights their distinctive features—tight plots, titanic personalities, lucid style, sympathetic women, exquisite poetry, and stagecraft. This analysis is followed by an account of how and why Sophoclean dramas have survived to be read and widely performed into the twenty-first century.

Electra, a powerful Greek tragedy by Sophocles, is shrouded in mystery regarding its exact date of composition. However, its stylistic connections with other works like Philoctetes (409 BC) and Oedipus at Colonus (401 BC) suggest it was crafted towards the twilight of Sophocles illustrious career. Set in the aftermath of the Trojan War in the city of Argos, the play delves into the gripping tale of Electra and her brother Orestes as they seek vengeance against their mother, Clytemnestra, and her lover, Aegisthus, for the brutal murder of their father, Agamemnon. - Summary by Wikipedia

Immerse yourself in the tragic drama "Antigone" by Sophocles. This podcast presents a timeless story of duty, loyalty, and defiance, exploring complex moral and ethical dilemmas. Ideal for fans of Greek tragedies and classical literature.

Ajax is a powerful Greek tragedy penned in the 5th century BC, though its exact debut remains a mystery. Most scholars believe it to be an early work, likely composed around 450 - 430 BC. The play delves into the tumultuous fate of the warrior Ajax, set in the aftermath of the Iliad and just prior to the climax of the Trojan War. At the storys outset, Ajax is consumed by rage after Achilles armor is awarded to Odysseus instead of him. In his fury, he vows to exact revenge on the Greek leaders who have dishonored him. However, before he can carry out his drastic plan, the goddess Athena ...

In this powerful second installment of Sophocless Theban Plays, we follow the heart-wrenching journey of Oedipus as he grapples with the devastating consequences of his fate. Having fulfilled the grim prophecy that foretold he would slay his father and wed his mother, Oedipus blinds himself and embarks on a solitary pilgrimage, accompanied by his devoted daughters, Antigone and Ismene. Join us as we explore themes of redemption, loss, and the struggle for peace in this timeless tragedy. (Summary by Elizabeth Klett) Cast Oedipus Andy Minter Antigone Elizabeth Klett Ismene Arielle Lipshaw ...

In Sophocles gripping play, we delve into a pivotal moment of the Trojan War as the cunning Odysseus and Achilles son, Neoptolemus, journey to a desolate island to persuade the bitter Philoctetes to join their cause in Troy. A prophecy foretells that the Greeks will need Philoctetes and his legendary bow—gifted by Heracles—if they are to achieve victory against the Trojans. The twist? Years earlier, Odysseus had callously abandoned Philoctetes on this very island due to a repulsive snakebite wound. Will Philoctetes find it in his heart to forgive, or will he seek revenge? (Summary by ...

Full-cast dramatization of Oedipus the King, the Athenian tragedy by Sophocles that was first performed c. 429 BCE. Featuring Douglas Campbell, Eric House and Robert Goodier.

In a world where duty clashes with defiance, and the laws of the state confront the unwritten rules of morality, complex questions about power, loyalty, and justice arise. This podcast explores these timeless dilemmas by offering a rotating collection of complete audiobooks that delve into similar themes of authority, rebellion, and ethical conflict. Each week, a new book is featured, bringing a fresh perspective from different periods and styles, ensuring a dynamic listening experience. Whether you're seeking insight into human nature, a deeper understanding of societal structures, or a ...

Ajax is a Greek tragedy written in the 5th century BC. The date of Ajax's first performance is unknown and may never be found, but most scholars regard it as an early work, c. 450 - 430 BC. It chronicles the fate of the warrior Ajax after the events of the Iliad, but before the end of the Trojan War. At the onset of the play, Ajax is enraged because Achilles' armor was awarded to Odysseus, rather than to him. He vows to kill the Greek leaders who disgraced him. Before he can enact his extraordinary revenge, though, he is tricked by the goddess Athena into believing that the sheep and cattle ...