Final answer:
The Greek playwright associated with the skeptical treatment of gods and sympathetic portrayal of female characters is Euripides. His influential works, like Medea and Trojan Women, challenge societal norms and portray the complexity of human psychology against mythical backdrops.
Step-by-step explanation:
The tragic Greek playwright who treated gods skeptically and portrayed female characters sympathetically was Euripides. Known for bringing psychological complexity and a critical lens to the portrayal of gods and humans alike, Euripides' characters, including strong female protagonists such as Medea, navigate personal tragedies in a manner that often questions social norms and divine justice. His works also challenged Athenian audiences to reassess their values and perceptions, as seen through plays like Medea and Trojan Women.
Euripides' skepticism is evident as he illustrates gods partaking in questionable actions, suggesting they shouldn't be considered divine when participating in malevolent deeds. His tragedies delve into the darkness, portray human frailty, and criticize antiquated conventions including those relating to the treatment of women, reminding us of the human capacity to question and rise above societal restrictions. Through his poignant critique, Euripides encouraged his audience to think critically about their world, a legacy that resonates in art and literature to this day.