Question

Every Greek tragedy had a chorus, although each one was made up of a different body of people. In The Libation Bearers, the chorus is made up of slave women from the palace. They represent the common interests and ideals of society and frequently comment on the action in highly lyrical odes. The chorus of this play differs from those of other famous tragedies in that it influences the course of events by telling characters what to do. From the beginning of the play, when it tells Electra how and for what she should pray to the gods and her father's ghost, the chorus shows itself to be willing to intervene in the action in order to bring about the desired results. Their most significant act comes when they tell Orestes' nurse, Cilissa, to alter Clytamnestra's message to Aigisthos. Whereas the queen had told Aigisthos to come with his bodyguards, the chorus commands that Cilissa instruct him to come alone. By doing this, they ensure Orestes's victory. They are certain that Orestes is the agent of Justice and they will do anything in their power to help him.

How does the chorus in The Libation Bearers differ from the chorus in other Greek tragedies?

Answer 1

In The Libation Bearers, unlike typical Greek tragedy choruses that comment on events and reflect societal norms, the chorus actively guides and influences the plot, directly affecting the narrative's outcome.

Step-by-step explanation:

The chorus in The Libation Bearers, which is part of the Oresteia trilogy by Aeschylus, plays a unique role compared to the chorus in other Greek tragedies. Unlike the more typical choruses of the time, which mainly comment on the action and represent societal attitudes without directly influencing events, the chorus in this play takes an active role in guiding and influencing the characters, and thereby the plot itself.

For instance, they advise Electra on how to pray and manipulate the message to Aigisthos, making them directly responsible for the outcome of the narrative. This level of involvement is atypical of Greek tragedy choruses, which are generally more passive and reflective in nature, as seen in the works of playwrights like Euripides and Sophocles.