Medea Book Summary

by Euripides120
TragedyClassic Literature

TL;DR

A powerful Greek tragedy where Medea seeks revenge against her husband, Jason, for his betrayal, ultimately leading to catastrophic consequences.

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What is Medea about

Medea, written by Euripides, is a tragic play that delves into the depths of passion, betrayal, and vengeance. It follows the story of Medea, who falls deeply in love with Jason and uses her cunning and sorcery to help him succeed. However, when Jason abandons her for another woman, Medea's love turns into a vengeful fury. The play highlights the fierce motives driving Medea as she concocts a terrible revenge to punish Jason for his betrayal. Written in a patriarchal and often misogynistic culture, Medea's powerful speeches about womanhood and injustice stand out, making the play both thought-provoking and controversial.

Medea 4 Key Takeaways

Medea's Love for Jason

Medea first falls in love with Jason when he comes to her homeland to steal the Golden Fleece. She aids him with her sorcery and cunning, standing by his side through various challenges.

Jason's Betrayal

Jason abandons Medea for the princess of Corinth, seeking social advancement. This betrayal ignites Medea's wrath and sets the stage for her vengeful plans.

Medea's Revenge

Medea meticulously plans her revenge against Jason. She murders the king and his daughter, and in a shocking turn, decides to kill her own children to inflict the greatest pain on Jason.

Medea's Escape

After committing the heinous acts, Medea escapes in a chariot provided by the sun god Helios, leaving Jason to grieve his immense loss and betrayal.

Top Medea Quotes

  • 'Of all creatures that can feel and think, we women are the worst treated things alive.'
  • 'The fiercest anger of all, the most incurable, is that which rages in the place of dearest love.'

Who should read Medea?

This book is ideal for readers who are interested in classic Greek tragedies, themes of love, betrayal, and revenge, as well as those who appreciate powerful female protagonists and complex moral questions.

About the Author

Euripides was a classical Athenian tragedian, born around 480 BCE. Known for his innovative and often controversial plays, Euripides is considered one of the great tragedians of classical Athens, alongside Aeschylus and Sophocles. His works often explore complex characters and social issues, challenging the norms of his time. Some of his other notable works include 'The Bacchae' and 'Hippolytus'.

Medea Best Reviews

  • 'Medea' is an astonishing play that captures the raw emotions of love and revenge, challenging the societal norms of its time. - The Guardian
  • Euripides' 'Medea' is a timeless tragedy that offers profound insights into the human condition, particularly the extreme consequences of betrayal and vengeance. - The New York Times

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Medea FAQs

What is the story of Medea in Euripides?

Medea helps Jason secure the Golden Fleece using her sorcery. When Jason leaves her for another woman, Medea enacts a terrifying revenge, killing the king, his daughter, and her own children.

Is Medea worth reading?

Yes, Medea is worth reading for its powerful portrayal of Medea's outrage and the profound speeches about womanhood and injustice, making it a thought-provoking and enduring tragedy.

Why is Medea controversial?

Medea is controversial due to its portrayal of a woman driven by love to commit murder, including the killing of her own children, challenging societal norms and evoking strong reactions.