Iphigeneia at Aulis

In their translation of Euripides' Iphigeneia at Aulis, noted American poet W.S. Merwin and eminent classicist George E. Dimock offer a compelling look at the devastating consequence of "man's inhumanity to man." A stern critique of Greek culture, Iphigeneia at Aulis condemns the Trojan War, depicting the ugly and awesome power of political ambition. Agamemnon's sacrifice of his daughter Iphigeneia to facilitate the Greek Armies advance on Troy is marvelously conveyed by Merwin, as he impressively recreates the broad array of moral and emotional tones with which Euripides has invested one of the most moving plays in the history of drama. With its insightful introduction by Dimock, notes on the text, and a glossary of mythical and geographical terms, this edition of Iphigeneia at Aulis is indispensable to an understanding of Euripides' tragic vision.

W.S. Merwin is the author and translator of many books of poetry. His Selected Poems was published in 1988. He was named 2010-2011 Poet Laureate.

George E. Dimock, Jr., now retired, was Professor of Classical Languages and Literature at Smith College.