Topics for Further Study
The question of how much human behavior is guided by free will versus how much is determined by fate has intrigued people from ancient Greek times to today. Consider this issue from a historical perspective, examining the influence of natural sciences on the debate, or explore it philosophically by studying Existentialist thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus.
Electra is often portrayed as a strong woman driven by a deep sense of purpose and inner resilience. How do her actions align with the Greek concept of heroism? Is this definition different for women compared to men? You might delve into classical mythology by reading works such as Ovid's Metamorphoses or Homer's Odyssey. Alternatively, you could compare Electra to another of Sophocles's leading heroines, Antigone.
The series of plays to which Electra belongs raises significant questions about the connection between divine law and human law. Develop an independent set of criteria by which individuals might act ethically. You might explore classical authors like Aristotle through his works Ethics or Politics, or investigate the relationship between law and literature.
Some critics argue that, although Sophocles's play is titled Electra, Electra herself does not play a central role in the action. They claim she spends much of the play speaking while others take action. Do you agree with this perspective?
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