The Women of Trachis

by Sophocles

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Ancient Athens was a thriving hub for various intellectual pursuits beyond drama, such as the writing of history and philosophy. Select a notable intellectual or cultural figure from this era, like the philosopher Socrates or the statesman Pericles, and prepare a class report on their life and work. In your presentation, evaluate the individual's contributions to their time, their role in Athenian society and politics, and their potential influence on or connection to Sophocles and the realm of tragic theater.

Collaborate with a group of classmates to perform a scene from Women of Trachis that you believe highlights a significant theme or emotion within the play. Make deliberate decisions regarding how to portray characters such as Deianira or Heracles, determining whether they should be seen as more or less sympathetic. Use elements like costumes, posture, stage positioning, and acting to convey these traits. Also, consider whether to deliver the lines rhythmically, in a manner closer to natural speech, or with some musical or dance accompaniment. Afterward, engage in a discussion with your classmates, addressing their questions and explaining your creative choices and techniques.

For many years, critics have debated who the tragic hero is in Sophocles's play. Write an essay arguing for a specific character as the tragic hero, supporting your argument by detailing the traits and events that qualify the character for this role. Use examples of other tragic heroes to bolster your argument. You might also discuss whether identifying the tragic hero is significant or useful, or you could argue that there is no tragic hero at all.

Create a short drama that continues the story of Hyllus following his parents' deaths. As you write, adhere as closely as possible to Sophocles's principles of tragic drama, including the unities of place and time, the restriction on the number of actors on stage simultaneously, and the use of a Chorus. Explore how Hyllus deals with the loss of his parents, whether he marries Iole and under what circumstances, how Iole responds to the situation, and how the gods perceive the morality of Hyllus's decision to follow his father's wishes.

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