Seven Against Thebes

Definition

Seven Against Thebes is a Greek tragedy by Aeschylus that recounts the conflict between the sons of Oedipus, Eteocles and Polynices, as they vie for control of Thebes. The play highlights themes of fate, familial conflict, and the consequences of pride and ambition within the context of the Theban cycle, ultimately illustrating the tragic downfall resulting from inescapable destiny.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The play is part of the larger Theban cycle, which includes the stories of Oedipus and his descendants, connecting themes of fate and family tragedy.
2. Eteocles and Polynices are central characters, representing the struggle for power and the tragic consequences of their rivalry.
3. The Seven Against Thebes refers to the seven champions who attack Thebes to support Polynices in his quest to reclaim his rightful throne.
4. The play emphasizes the concept of hubris, illustrating how excessive pride leads characters to make disastrous decisions.
5. The climax occurs when Eteocles and Polynices confront each other in battle, resulting in mutual destruction and fulfilling their tragic destinies.

Review Questions

• How does Aeschylus portray the theme of fate versus free will in Seven Against Thebes?
  • In Seven Against Thebes, Aeschylus illustrates the tension between fate and free will through the characters' struggles and their tragic outcomes. The protagonists, Eteocles and Polynices, are caught in a cycle of familial curse that seems to dictate their actions and destinies. Despite their attempts to assert control over their fates, they ultimately fall victim to their preordained paths, demonstrating how individual choices can be overshadowed by unavoidable fate.
• Discuss the significance of the Chorus in Seven Against Thebes and how it contributes to the play's overall message.
  • The Chorus in Seven Against Thebes plays a crucial role as it provides insight into the emotional landscape surrounding the characters' actions. It comments on the themes of fate, pride, and familial conflict while also reflecting societal values and concerns. By voicing fears and moral dilemmas faced by both the city of Thebes and its inhabitants, the Chorus enhances the audience's understanding of the tragic events unfolding and reinforces the message about the consequences of hubris.
• Evaluate how Seven Against Thebes serves as a commentary on leadership and its responsibilities through its portrayal of Eteocles and Polynices.
  • Seven Against Thebes critiques leadership through its depiction of Eteocles and Polynices as flawed leaders driven by ambition and familial rivalry. Their inability to reconcile their differences ultimately leads to their downfall, which serves as a cautionary tale about the responsibilities that come with power. Aeschylus underscores that true leadership requires wisdom, humility, and an understanding of one's duties to others; failing these principles results not only in personal tragedy but also in wider repercussions for society as a whole.

Related terms

Oedipus Rex: A tragic play by Sophocles that tells the story of Oedipus, who unknowingly kills his father and marries his mother, leading to his eventual downfall.

Antigone: A tragedy by Sophocles focusing on Antigone's defiance of King Creon’s orders regarding her brother Polynices, exploring themes of duty, family loyalty, and moral law.

Chorus: A group of performers in ancient Greek drama who provide commentary on the action of the play, often reflecting the moral and social implications of the events.