Medea By Euripides: Literary Analysis

In reading both versions of Medea by Euripides, one an adaptation by Robinson Jeffers, the other translated by Diane Arnson Svarlien, it is clear there are differences that affect the reading of the drama. Euripides had a unique way to tap into and connect with the audience and the play Medea is a perfect example. Robinson Jeffers provides a refined version of the work and in his version, the rhetoric is more straightforward, being trimmed to only the essential parts. Jeffers says “Poetry is not a civiliser, rather the reverse.” The adaptation “bears Jeffers’ trademark stamp of nihilism and destructive passion.” (Scholar Guide) Through this, Medea has more remorse for her actions and is more cunning in the adaptation than in the original play …show more content…
The adaptation text, being reduced in length compared to the original, elevates the meaning of Medea’s every word. Medea says "...you might remember whether I cheated my father for you and tamed the fire-breathing Brazen-hoofed bulls; and whether I saved your life in the field of the teeth; and you might remember whether I poisoned the great serpent and got you the Golden Fleece; and fled with you, and killed my brother when he pursued us, making myself abominable in my own home; and then in yours I got your enemy Pelias hacked to death by his own daughters ' hands- whatever these fine Corinthian friends of yours say against my rapid and tricky wisdom; you it has served, you it has served well: here are five times, if I counted right. - and it’s not all counted." (Jeffers, 138) Euripides presents Medea as ill-fated, preoccupied with the past, and carrying her head in sorrow. In Jeffers’ version, Medea is portrayed as a strong descendant of a king and someone that Jason should regret divorcing. She is in constant search for revenge on …show more content…
So, I will need to ask you one small favor. If I should find some way, some strategy to pay my husband back, bring him justice, keep silent.” (Euripides, 752) In addition, she says “Most of time a woman is worthless in battle and flinches at the sight of steal. But when she’s faced with an injustice in the bedroom, there is no other mind for murderous.” (Euripides, 752) Medea is asking the chorus to not tell anyone of the horrible actions she is about to commit and tries to gain empathy. The chorus responds “I’ll do as you ask. You’re justified, Medea, in paying your husband back. I’m not surprised you grieve at your misfortunes.” (Euripides, 752) Medea successfully creates accomplices for her future crimes. In this case, Medea uses Metis by reading the chorus, finding weak spots in them, and effectively using the weakness against them. Metis was a highly admirable skill in the Mycenaean era and was a notable characteristic of the Athenian character. Medea is clever in both representations, but she works harder to Jeffers’ to overcome the paltry reputation she