The Oresteia is a reactionary text to the Iliad, with all of the traditional values presented in the Iliad reversed, allowing Aeschylus to critique former Greek life and celebrate the modern civilization he would have viewed as Athens. Aeschylus’ play would have been seen by the male citizens of Athens. In other words, Aeschylus’ play would have been seen by those with the most power and influence in Athens. One of the most notable Athenian traits was their hubristic view of their culture. They considered
Aeschylus was a pioneer of theatre and directed many of his own productions. He is credited with adding a second speaking actor into his plays. This was a major innovation, greatly increasing the number of situations which could be presented; especially if each actor portrayed multiple characters, as soon became the custom. He also involved the chorus directly in the action of the play. The immediate effect of these changes was felt in the development of the visual form of the dramatic presentation
“Agamemnon” is one of the three featured stories in The Oresteia. The story of Agamemnon begins when the watchmen of Argos recall the events of Menelaus’ wife Helen being taken by Prince Paris of Trojan. Menelaus calls on his brother Agamemnon to help him retrieve Helen back; Agamemnon agrees. Agamemnon gathers