Lecture Notes: The Eumenides - Final Play of the Trilogy

Introduction to the Play

• Title: The Eumenides
• Context: Concluding play of the tragic trilogy
• Main Focus: Justice and transition from old to new legal systems in Athens

Plot Summary

• Orestes' Guilt: Haunted by killing his mother, Clytemnestra
• Pursuit by Furies: Greek goddesses of Vengeance chase him
• Refuge with Apollo: Apollo, who encouraged the murder, now protects Orestes
• Trial Setup: Orestes and the Furies agree to a trial by Athenians and Athena

Athena’s Judgment

• The Trial: Orestes' guilt vote ends in a tie
• Athena's Decisive Vote: Declares Orestes innocent
  • Quote: "Mine is the right to add the final vote and I award it to Orestes' cause"
• Legal Philosophy: Athena emphasizes reason in law and justice

Resolution with the Furies

• Promise to the Furies: Athenians will build a sanctuary and offer sacrifices
• Transformation: Furies are appeased and renamed as the "Eumenides" or "Kindly Ones"

Themes

• Old vs. New Justice:
  • Old Justice: Eye for an eye, endless cycle of revenge
  • New Justice: Impartial jury, consideration of circumstances and consequences
• Social and Moral Shift:
  • Athens embraces compassion, mercy, and forgiveness
  • Emphasis on reason over revenge

Conclusion

• Athens' New Disposition:
  • Focus on calm, dispassionate reason
  • Celebration of Athenian values and lifestyle

Closing Remarks

• Final Thoughts: Arouses pride in Athenian life
• Encouragement: Like, comment, and subscribe to the series