Classical Greek J292,05 November 2021

1. Electra’s Initial Desperation and Distrust: Her fear of strangers, her disbelief in Orestes’ return, and her bitterness toward her situation.

2. Recognition and Reunion with Orestes: The shift in Electra’s attitude as she realizes who Orestes is, and how Euripides uses dramatic irony to heighten the moment.

3. Aegisthus’ Cruelty and Electra’s Hatred: His desire to weaken Electra, his drunken mockery at Agamemnon’s tomb, and her outrage at his disrespect.

4. Electra’s Suffering and Social Decline: Her jealousy of Clytemnestra’s luxury, her resentment toward the palace servants, and her forced labor in contrast to her royal past.

5. Euripides’ Emotional Language: His use of vivid imagery to highlight Electra’s grief, her deep longing for revenge, and her passionate calls for justice.

6. The Justification of Electra’s Feelings: The audience’s perspective on whether her hatred, suffering, and desire for vengeance are justified, based on her tragic circumstances.