Excerpt from The Riddle of the Bacchae: The Last Stage of Euripides Religious Views
One important problem connected with Euripides still awaits a full solution - that of his religion. His precise position in the history of Greek literature and in that of the drama generally, his views on contemporary politics, and his attitude towards the purely intellectual tendencies of his own time, are now understood with some completeness. But the poet's opinions with regard to religion, the subject which for many reasons was unquestionably the most important for every Greek tragedian, continue to be the subject of controversy. It is in this respect that the Bacchae is of vital importance to a true comprehension of Euripides. Magnificent as the play undoubtedly is as a production of literary art, and largely as the reputation of Euripides rests upon it, it is still true that the author of Medea, Ion, Hippolytus, and Iphigeneia in Tauris would be scarcely less honoured than he is if the Bacchae had perished. But his greatness as a thinker and as a teacher of his countrymen depends, it is hardly too much to say, more on this one drama than on all his other extant works taken together. It is his last and most complete exposition of the religious beliefs over which he had been pondering for half a century, and which had at length reached full maturity. Every Euripidean student must make it his aim to understand the Bacchae. But the dramatist has taken care that his true meaning shall not lie on the surface. Like Plato, he has consistently adhered to the principle that the real literary artist will never say in so many words what his message is.
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Paperback. Condition: New. Print on Demand. This book delves into the intricate world of ancient Greek tragedy, specifically focusing on the enigmatic play "The Bacchae" by Euripides. The author explores the complex religious landscape of Euripides' time, a period marked by a clash between traditional beliefs and emerging philosophical ideas. Central to the discussion is the character of Dionysus, the god of wine and ecstasy, and his role within the play. The author challenges conventional interpretations, arguing that Euripides presents Dionysus not as a benevolent deity but as a figure with questionable motives and actions. This reevaluation prompts a deeper examination of the play's protagonist, Pentheus, and his resistance to the Dionysian cult. Through meticulous analysis of the text, the author uncovers layers of meaning that have often been overlooked. The exploration extends beyond the main characters to encompass the chorus, the play's structure, and its subtle hints at Euripides' own religious views. By questioning long-held assumptions and offering fresh perspectives, this book provides a thought-provoking journey into the heart of one of Greek drama's most enduring works. Ultimately, the book's insights illuminate the profound impact of religious and philosophical transformations on the art and thought of ancient Greece. This book is a reproduction of an important historical work, digitally reconstructed using state-of-the-art technology to preserve the original format. In rare cases, an imperfection in the original, such as a blemish or missing page, may be replicated in the book. print-on-demand item. Seller Inventory # 9781330468081_0
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PAP. Condition: New. New Book. Shipped from UK. Established seller since 2000. Seller Inventory # LW-9781330468081
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PAP. Condition: New. New Book. Shipped from UK. Established seller since 2000. Seller Inventory # LW-9781330468081
Quantity: 15 available