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 ( archaic comrade, terror 17) of the Queen (that woman - she manoeuvres like a man 13) and her dictatorial rule. He registers that he cries for the hard times that he endures. We are really sure from what he says that the House of Atreus is in cruel hands and he clamours for the return of his loving King. Clytemnestra is never mentioned by ready, as the sentry is afraid(p) of punishment for saying too much (I never say a word). Her influence is all around, even if she herself is not present. The refrain sing as Clytemnestra moves around the stage, lighting fires and unmoved to their appeals for news. Their song tells the memoir 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 Zeus 47) they also describe the death of Iphigenia with great mercy (gentle curving lips... her g lance... wounding every murderer). They describe his brokenheartedness (pain both ways 212) between both courses of action, whether to obey the illusionist or save 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 foreland that we finally talk to Clytemnestra, the mother of the slaughtered child. The Chorus is indeed reverential (we keep 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 almost the fall of Troy, we see that she is very quick to anger by his manner of speaking (sends you into raptures No one takes me with visions 274-5). Whether the Chorus is being rude or she is barely quick to offend is in the balance. The Chorus a fter all dont ascertain her radio beacons 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 location 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 authoritative ostentatious fashion (my commands.