Final answer:
Aigisthos is portrayed as a treacherous and power-hungry character in Aeschylus's version of the myth of Orestes, while other versions also depict him as a villain but with some variations in his characterization. Aigisthos serves as a foil to the heroic and just character of Orestes, highlighting themes of justice and vengeance.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Aeschylus's version of the myth of Orestes, Aigisthos is portrayed as a treacherous and power-hungry character. He collaborates with Clytemnestra, Orestes' mother, to plot and carry out the murder of Agamemnon, Orestes' father. Aigisthos is depicted as a symbol of corruption and a usurper of power.
In other versions of the story, Aigisthos is also portrayed as a villain, but with some variations in his characterization. For example, in Euripides' plays, Aigisthos is depicted as a weak and cowardly man, easily controlled by women and ultimately meeting a tragic end.
Overall, regardless of the version, Aigisthos serves as a foil to the heroic and just character of Orestes, highlighting the themes of justice, vengeance, and the consequences of hubris.