Violence In The Bacchae

From a close analysis of the end of The Bacchae, readers can observe the society’s tolerance for violence and unquestioning trust in leaders. When the messenger comes back to Thebes to report the death of Pentheus, his use of language greatly differs from that of the chorus members and Agave, and through the differences and similarities, we can understand the common values of the time. The messenger seems distraught when he comes into Thebes, and it is clear from his tone that he does not approve of the Maenads’ mindset or Agave’s actions. He is surprised by the chorus’ response to the news of Pentheus’ death, so he asks them, “does my master’s anguish give you joy” (Euripides 67)? Unfortunately for him, the majority overwhelms his opinions …show more content…
Like the reaction of the chorus, Agave’s words prove that violence is a common occurrence in their lives, but her lines also display the importance of ritual in their society. Upon reaching the town, Agave calls out to the chorus and says, “I caught it by myself, this offspring of a savage lion, and with no net: look” (73)! She is very proud of her actions allowing readers to understand that even the uppermost members of their society appreciated hunting. Despite the parallels between the chorus and Agave, there is also a clear separation of Agave from the chorus because she is a new follower of Dionysus instead of a long time one the way the women in the chorus are. The chorus members are humoring her and tolerating her excitement and existence; they are not as excited about her catch as they were about Dionysus’ violent power. This division exposes the hierarchical tendencies ingrained into their world. Even though Agave is married to the king of Thebes, the women in the chorus still want to feel superior to Agave, and they do so through their unconditional love of