In Euripides’ tragedy, “Medea”, the concept of exile is notable as both a historical reality and an omnipresent threat that influences the emotional landscape of the characters. Medea and Jason exist as exiles prior to the overt events of the play; they share a turbulent past where Medea had to abandon her homeland of Colchis after assisting Jason in seizing the Golden Fleece. Following this, they both face exile from Jason’s native land of Iolcus, condemned as murderers due to Medea’s desperate bid to obtain power.
Truth vs. Rhetoric
The narrative of “Medea” is intricately layered with instances of deception masked as truth. Medea’s impassioned declarations to the chorus, wherein she reveals her intent to harm Creon and his family, culminate in a calculated manipulation. She persuades Creon to grant her a day’s reprieve, ostensibly to organize her children’s affairs. However, this further complicates the irony, as her true intention is far darker—she plans to murder her children. This duality creates a tension that keeps the audience engaged, even if they are initially oblivious to her malevolent schemes.
The Roles of Men and Women
“Medea” unfolds within a patriarchal framework that permits Jason and Creon to unceremoniously discard Medea. The play serves as a profound examination of gender dynamics, highlighting the stark contrast between societal expectations of men and women. Jason and Creon perceive Medea’s intelligence as a threat, which is exacerbated by her gender. Creon’s comment on the temperament of women reflects the societal beliefs of the time, suggesting that a fierce woman is perceived as a difficult entity to manage.
Justice and Natural Law
The concept of Natural Law—a moral compass intrinsic to humanity—is scrutinized throughout “Medea.” The characters’ actions, such as Jason’s abandonment and Medea’s shocking decision to take her children’s lives, challenge the very essence of their humanity. Medea’s maternal betrayal serves as a shocking revelation for both the audience of ancient Athens and modern viewers alike, raising questions about moral perimeters within human nature and the repercussions of violated trust.
Duty
At the story’s core lies a profound conflict between Medea and Jason regarding their obligations to each other. Medea feels wronged by Jason, asserting that despite her unwavering loyalty, he has neglected his responsibilities both as a husband and as a man. She poignantly questions why men do not bear visible markers that differentiate the sincere from the untrustworthy. This notion of duty extends beyond the central characters, implicating the servants and Creon, who each have their own set of obligations to fulfill in this fiercely competitive world.
