Oresteia

Prophesy and fate dictate much of Orestes’ actions in the trilogy. How does free will factor into his motivations? Do characters actually have free will in a universe ruled by gods with conflicting interests?

Analyze Apollo’s argument for Orestes during the trial in The Eumenides. Are the god’s judgements sound? What methods of persuasion does he use to convince the jurors to acquit Orestes?

Contrast Clytaemnestra’s motives for killing Agamemnon in Agamemnon with Agamemnon’s motives for sacrificing Iphigenia before leaving for war. Was Clytaemnestra justified?

Aegisthus and Agamemnon are enemies due to a blood feud between their fathers. Compare and contrast the two cousins. What do their characters illuminate about the ideals of leadership Aeschylus portrays?

What is the role of the Furies within the world of The Oresteia? How do they interact with mortals? What makes them different than other gods?

What is the significance of the royal robes and tapestries in Agamemnon? Why does Clytaemnestra kill Agamemnon the way she does?

Cassandra and Orestes are two characters who are highly influenced by prophesy. What is the role of prophesy and oracles in The Oresteia? How do they dictate the actions of the characters they concern?

Xenia, or the relationship between guests and hosts, was a sacred bond in Greek culture. How is this concept expressed in The Oresteia? Who invokes it, and who violates it?