Oresteia 2

A detailed Summary of Oresteia 2

The chorus plays a central role in the development of The Oresteia. It is a group of actors who respond to and comment on the main action of the play with song, dance, and recitation. Bowra's interpretation of the use of the chorus is difficult to refute, since the basic roles of the chorus cannot be denied.

The first comment Bowra makes about the chorus is that is "the mouthpiece of the inspired poet." This is the most significant purpose of the chorus because through it the author can express his views and opinions about any aspect of life he pleases; for example, morals, the nature of man, and the most crucial theme of religion. There are numerous instances in which the chorus simply makes a generalization about human nature. When Cassandra foresees her own destruction the leader along with the chorus feels pity for her. However, the chorus goes to the root o

In the first two plays the chorus comments on the problems facing the characters, as Bowra mentions. In the third play however, the chorus changes; it becomes one composed of the Furies. The Furies are active members of the play whose position is dynamic. In this aspect the chorus is not simply commenting on other characters' actions, but instead focusing on itself. Solutions to problems are presented in many parts of the plays. When Agamemnon is stabbed the chorus responds by suggesting heralds be sent out, and the guards mustered because they will save the house (159 ll 1373-1374). Yet another situation in which the chorus summons for help is when Electra is grieving her father's death and Orestes is taking on the responsibility to avenge it (198 ll 463-465). In these lines the chorus is also providing the characters with moral support to continue in their objective.

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Some common words found in the essay are:
Furies Furies, , Electra Orestes', Libation Bearers, father's death, chorus simply, plays chorus, characters chorus,

Approximate Word count = 601
Approximate Pages = 2 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: English

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Oresteia 2

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