Euripides' Medea
A New Translation

Euripides' Medea comes alive in this new translation that will be useful for both academic study and stage production.

Diane J. Rayor (Edited and translated by)

9781107015661, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 22 April 2013

127 pages
23.5 x 15.5 x 1.3 cm, 0.34 kg

'This Medea is the most accessible translation that I have ever come across. There is nothing intimidating here. The text is fresh, telling the story in a direct, clear language best appreciated when spoken aloud. The author provides copious notes on the verse and essays that help the reader contextualize the play. It is an ideal choice for students or actors.' Chris Hayes, Director, London Theatre Exchange

Euripides' Medea comes alive in this new translation that will be useful for both academic study and stage production. Diane J. Rayor's accurate yet accessible translation reflects the play's inherent theatricality and vibrant poetry. The book includes an analytical introduction and comprehensive notes, and an essay on directing Medea by stage director Karen Libman. The play begins after Medea, a princess in her own land, has sacrificed everything for Jason: she helped him in his quest for the Golden Fleece, eloped with him to Greece, and bore him sons. When Jason breaks his oath to her and betrays her by marrying the king's daughter - his ticket to the throne - Medea contemplates the ultimate retribution. What happens when words deceive and those you trust most do not mean what they say? Euripides' most enduring Greek tragedy is a fascinating and disturbing story of how far a woman will go to take revenge in a man's world.

1. Introduction
2. Scene list
3. Cast of characters
4. Medea
5. On directing Medea by Karen Libman
6. Notes.

Subject Areas: Classical history / classical civilisation [HBLA1], Literary studies: plays & playwrights [DSG], Literary studies: classical, early & medieval [DSBB], Plays, playscripts [DD], Theatre studies [AN]