Phaedra

Discuss the relationship between Phaedra and the Nurse. Why does the Nurse decide to help Phaedra? What ethical values does each character hold? How do the moralities of Phaedra and the Nurse contrast with one another?

Are Hippolytus’s reasons for remaining a virgin presented as virtuous? Why or why not?

How are typical gender roles upheld in the play? How are they subverted?

What is the role of reputation in the play? How are the different characters in the play motivated by their pursuit of a good reputation?

Is Phaedra’s situation caused by the gods or fate, or is Phaedra responsible for her actions? Does she have no choice but to behave in the way she does?

Pick two characters and describe how their relationship to nature reveals their character.

Why is Theseus so quick to believe Phaedra’s accusations against Hippolytus? What does it suggest about his character?

Discuss the relationship between fate and human responsibility in the play. Are the play’s events brought about by fate or by the failings of human characters?