Medea

One of the most important - although perhaps more subtle - themes in the play

Medea involves the importance of questioning the norm, aka, the oppression of women and the role of religion in society. When the play was first performed in 431 BC, Greece was experiencing a period of great revelation. Though, in the grand scheme of events and history, another time would come to be known as the “Age of Discovery,” ancient Greece is characterized by its many philosophers, inventors, and scientists who promoted new ways of thinking. As these fields of science and reasoning expanded, more and more people were questioning the status quo. Nevertheless, the role of tradition persisted and the clout of the gods was undeniable. Many philosophers recognized the existence of some type of god or gods, but they also encouraged people to think for themselves and give less weight to religion. Additionally, while the mind was explored and its known capabilities were expanding, women continued to be repressed and earned little power. More and more playwrights were showing the dangers of relying on these antiquated doctrines. Euripides was known to be close with and influenced by Socrates and likewise, encouraged more “rational” ways of thinking. In writing Medea, he was basically showing the “evils” of religion and the ongoing maltreatment of women.

The waters in the sacred rivers                                                          

  are flowing in reverse.

  And all well-ordered things

  are once more turning on themselves.                                      

  Men's plans are now deceitful,

  their firm trust in the gods is gone.

  My life is changing—common talk

  is giving me a better reputation.

  Honour's coming to the female sex.

  Slander will no longer injure women.      (410-420)         

In considering this selection alone one may be mislead into believing the outcome of the play is different than it really is. Does honour really come to the female sex? These last two lines even seem to contain a certain irony. Medea ultimately is vilified. Furthermore, by noting the shift in trust given to the gods, it seems like there is still some credibility given to religion. In my opinion, this play shows the futility of relying on religion. But the way I see this quotation, Euripides is showing that from this point on, females will, or at least should, play a different role. Though many people vilify Medea, she is maybe more of a martyr as Euripides notes the deceitful nature of men. Perhaps in his opinion Jason is to blame for the events that transpired?

Fiona Nelson