Thyestes

Discuss the depiction of power and its corrupting influence in the play. How does the hunger for power drive the events of the play? How do different characters conceive of power?

Compare and contrast the characters of Thyestes and Atreus. How are they different or similar? How do their personalities, values, and actions contribute to the outcome of the play?

Analyze Seneca’s use of violence and horrifying imagery in the play. How is this imagery used to evoke emotions and develop the themes of the play?

Explore the concept of family and heredity in the play. How do betrayal, loyalty, and family ties contribute to the unfolding tragedy?

Consider the role of rhetoric in the play. How do the characters use language to deceive and manipulate one another (and themselves)?

What role, if any, does justice have in the play?

Explore the role of divine intervention in the play. How do the gods influence the characters’ lives and choices?

Ancient tragedy was often concerned with the idea of hubris—overweening arrogance and pride. How do the characters of the play display hubris? What does the play suggest about the nature and outcome(s) of hubris?