Electra

Main Ideas

• Revenge and justice: The central theme of the play is Electra and Orestes' revenge for the murder of their father Agamemnon. The question of what constitutes just retribution runs throughout the play.
• Family ties and betrayal: The conflict within the family, Clytemnestra and Aegisthus' betrayal, and the loyalty and love between brother and sister are key elements of the plot.
• Moral dilemmas: The characters face difficult moral choices, such as killing their mother to avenge their father, raising questions about morality and ethics.
• Role of fate and the gods: The play emphasizes the influence of fate and the intervention of the gods in human lives, reflecting ancient Greek beliefs.
• Female strength and suffering: Electra is portrayed as a strong yet suffering woman fighting for justice, which is central to the play.