Cyclops

Euripides (c.480–c.406 BC), translated by Theodoridis, G., (contributor-contact-email)

Euripides’ Cyclops, likely written towards the end of his life, is the only surviving satyr play from Ancient Greece. It was originally part of a four-play series presented in 5th century BC Athens, and is an adaptation of an Odyssey episode. Set in Sicily at Mount Aetna, the play introduces Silenus and his sons, enslaved by the Cyclops Polyphemus. As Odysseus and his men arrive, seeking food and water, Silenus considers trading the Cyclops’ provisions for wine.

The play unfolds with Odysseus trying to avoid capture and consumption by the Cyclops. Despite his efforts, the Cyclops, deceived by Silenus, plans to eat them. Odysseus intoxicates the Cyclops and plots his blinding, with the chorus of satyrs expressing willingness to assist. Eventually, the Cyclops emerges drunken and blinded, allowing Odysseus and his men, along with the satyrs, to escape. The Cyclops’ declaration that he worships only his appetite reflects a theme of human-centred morality, of significant interest for fifth-century Athenians.

Author Details

Euripides, a preeminent Greek tragedian born around 480 BC on the island of Salamis, was a transformative figure in the evolution of ancient Greek drama. He was the son of Mnesarchus, a merchant, and Cleito. Initially destined to be an athlete, as per an oracle’s prophecy, Euripides’ career was redirected towards the arts, encompassing studies in philosophy under Anaxagoras and Prodicus, and painting.

Among the trio of great tragedians, including also Aeschylus and Sophocles, Euripides is noted for his innovative approach to drama. He is credited with infusing classical Greek theatre with a modern sensibility, portraying mythical heroes as ordinary individuals in extraordinary situations. This novel perspective heralded significant developments in drama, influencing later forms including comedy and romance.

Ancient sources attribute as many as 92 plays to him, but only around 18 or 19 have survived in a complete form, with the authorship of “Rhesus” being subject to debate. His works are distinguished by their deep exploration of characters’ inner lives - in stark contrast to the style of his contemporaries.

Euripides’ own life intersected significantly with contemporary intellectual movements, granting Socrates’ and himself prominent positions in Athenian culture - which led to both being criticized by comic poets including Aristophanes.

In his later years, there are conflicting accounts about his voluntary exile and death in Macedonia around 406 BC, with both the assumption his death there, and the nature of his relationship with King Archelaus, being questioned by modern scholars.

His dramatic contributions are multifaceted, marked by a shift from traditional heroic narratives to more nuanced, often controversial, explorations of societal issues and human psychology, in plays characterized by their rhetorical prowess and innovative use of language, reflecting contemporary Athenian society and its complexities.

Despite winning only a few dramatic competitions in his lifetime, Euripides’ impact on the genre of tragedy, and his influence on subsequent generations of playwrights and dramatists, is undeniable. He remains a pivotal figure in the evolution of Western drama.

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Theodoridis, G.,

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