“It’s a woman’s nature to take delight in having on our lips and on our tongues the troubles that beset us.” From Andromache, translated by Diane Arnson Svarlien (lines 98-100)

“Raise your head from the ground, lift your neck from the dirt; rise now, consider your fate! It is bleak.” From Hecuba (A. S. translation, lines 100-101)

This fall we are reading aloud three famous tragedies by Euripides: Andromache, Hecuba, and Trojan Women. Euripides was one of the greatest authors of Greek tragedy. His dramas are distinguished by clever dialogue, fine choral lyrics, and gritty realism. The three plays we will read are all set in the aftermath of the Trojan War and show the fates of the women of the royal family of Troy.  

All three plays will be read and discussed in class. The group reads orally in a round-robin manner. Mispronunciations are considered creative. Required text:  Students in this class must obtain a copy of Euripides: Andromache, Hecuba, Trojan Women, translated by Dian Arnson Svarlien (Hackett Publishing Company, Inc. 2012).  Other fine translations are available but because we read aloud, everyone must use the same translation.  We have used Ms. Arnson Svarlien’s translations in the past and our group found her versions accessible and lively.  She uses contemporary English-language to approximate what Euripides’ plays are in Greek. Supplemental materials are provided for the participants’ enjoyment and enlightenment but are unnecessary for in-class participation.