Clytemnestra

Definition

Clytemnestra is a central figure in Greek tragedy, most notably known as the wife of Agamemnon and mother of Orestes. She plays a crucial role in the themes of revenge, justice, and gender dynamics within the context of her family's tragic legacy, particularly in relation to the House of Atreus and the consequences of her actions that resonate throughout Greek literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Clytemnestra's motivations for killing Agamemnon include vengeance for the sacrifice of their daughter Iphigenia and her desire for power while he is away at war.
2. In Aeschylus's 'Oresteia', Clytemnestra is portrayed as a strong and manipulative character who challenges traditional gender roles of her time.
3. Her relationship with Aegisthus, her lover during Agamemnon's absence, symbolizes betrayal and further complicates the dynamics within the House of Atreus.
4. Clytemnestra's death at the hands of Orestes serves as a critical turning point in the cycle of vengeance that plagues their family.
5. The character of Clytemnestra has been interpreted in various ways over time, often seen as both a villain and a victim, reflecting the complexities of gender roles and moral ambiguity in Greek tragedy.

Review Questions

• How does Clytemnestra challenge traditional gender roles within her society through her actions?
  • Clytemnestra defies traditional gender roles by taking on the role of both a powerful ruler and a vengeful figure. While women were often expected to be subservient, she exhibits control over her household and engages in political machinations typically reserved for men. Her murder of Agamemnon demonstrates her rejection of passive femininity, positioning her as an active agent in the tragic events that unfold.
• Discuss the significance of Clytemnestra's relationship with Aegisthus in the context of the House of Atreus.
  • Clytemnestra's affair with Aegisthus highlights themes of betrayal and complicity within the cursed lineage of the House of Atreus. Their union represents not only personal betrayal against Agamemnon but also reinforces the cycle of violence that characterizes their family history. This relationship ultimately intertwines with themes of revenge and justice, complicating moral perceptions surrounding her character.
• Evaluate the impact of Clytemnestra's actions on Orestes' character development and the overarching themes in the Oresteia.
  • Clytemnestra's murder of Agamemnon sets into motion Orestes' journey towards vengeance, shaping his character from passive son to an active avenger. This conflict is central to the themes explored in the Oresteia, particularly those concerning justice, familial loyalty, and moral ambiguity. The tension between Orestes' obligation to avenge his father and the moral implications of killing his mother culminates in profound existential questions about justice and revenge, significantly impacting his development throughout the trilogy.

Related terms

Agamemnon:

The king of Mycenae and leader of the Greek forces during the Trojan War, whose murder by Clytemnestra sets off a chain of tragic events.

Orestes:

The son of Agamemnon and Clytemnestra, who is driven by a sense of duty and revenge to avenge his father's murder.

Furies: Mythological figures representing vengeance and retribution, who pursue Orestes after he kills Clytemnestra in retaliation for her role in Agamemnon's death.