First Impressions of Clytemnestra in Euripides’ Electra :: Euripides Electra Essays

First Impressions of Clytemnestra in Euripides Electra The play begins with the dreary-eyed watchman, scared stiff (old comrade, terror 17) of the Queen (that woman - she manoeuvres bid a man 13) and her tyrannical rule. He says that he cries for the hard times that he endures. We are very sure from what he says that the House of Atreus is in ferocious hands and he clamours for the return of his loving King. Clytemnestra is never mentioned by name, as the sentry is afraid of punishment for saying too much (I never say a word). Her influence is tout ensemble around, even if she herself is not present. The Chorus sing as Clytemnestra moves around the stage, lighting fires and unmoved to their appeals for news. Their song tells the invoice of the Greek expeditions problems as they set off for Troy. It would seem that, whilst uplifting the name of Agamemnon (with the power of genus Zeus 47) they also describe the death of Iphigenia with great pity ( season curving lips... her gl ance... wounding every murderer). They describe his heartache (pain both ways 212) between both courses of action, whether to obey the oracle or save up his daughter. But undeniably, the Chorus does not approve with what he did (cause of all our grief 222) and tell with great sorrow a flashback of Iphigenia singing at the feasts to Zeus (transfixed with joy 246). It is with this in our mind that we finally talk to Clytemnestra, the mother of the slaughtered child. The Chorus is indeed reverential (we respect your power 259) but is it her power or the power she holds? It appears that they are dutiful to Agamemnons wife, not to Clytemnestra (the warlords woman 260). As the leader and Clytemnestra exchange information about the fall of Troy, we see that she is very quick to arouse by his words (sends you into raptures No one takes me with visions 274-5). Whether the Chorus is being rude or she is merely quick to offend is in the balance. The Chorus after all dont regard her beacon s very highly (real of just a dream 481). I would argue though, that it is Clytemnestra who is looking for any sign of disloyalty in them even if in that respect is little to see (were loyal... never blame your silence 263). Her recount of the beacon relay to bring her word of the fall of Troy is told in arrogant pretentious fashion (my commands.