The Persians by Aeschylus

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THE PERSIANS BY AESCHYLUS

Nikos Dionysios delves into the symbolism and parallels of one of the leading works of world drama, Aeschylus' "Persians". Aeschylus' "Persians" “still charts imaginary paths of peace and morality in a modern context; it is an exploration of war and peace, its resounding effects, after effects and a code of ethics.”

The Persians, Aeschylus' first surviving tragedy, is the oldest extant work in the Western tradition. It is the only account of the Persian Wars composed by an eyewitness, Aeschylus, and is drawn directly from the playwright's own experiences at the Battle of Salamis.

The victory at Salamis in 480 BC was a moment of great triumph for Athens. A small city-state had defeated the greatest superpower of the time. Aeschylus expresses the story from the Persian perspective. His pride in the great Greek victory is tempered by a genuine compassion for Xerxes and his defeated nation. Although Aeschylus himself fought the Persians, he honors and judges them magnanimously. This play is a testament to the humanity of Aeschylus.

Nikos discusses the social and cultural importance of the play. He analyzes the characters, their political significance and symbolism.

CHARACTERS
Chorus of Persian elders
Queen Atossa
Persian Herald
Ghost of Darius
Xerxes

45 minutes