The Suppliants
The Suppliants
Book Brief
Beta52
Play • Fiction
Argos, Greece • Mythical Antiquity
2004
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Suppliants by Aeschylus follows the journey of 50 Danaid sisters who flee Egypt to escape forced marriages. They seek asylum in Argos, invoking the protection of the gods and the Argive king. The play explores themes of refuge, divine will, and human law as characters navigate a complex moral and legal landscape.
Mysterious
Dark
Contemplative
Emotional
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
1,800 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Suppliants by Aeschylus is praised for its exploration of themes such as asylum and justice, showcasing the playwright's ability to intertwine social and divine laws. Its lyrical language and choral elements are celebrated, though some find the plot less dynamic compared to Aeschylus's other works. The play's historical and cultural context can be challenging for modern audiences.
Who Should Read The Suppliants?
A reader who enjoys The Suppliants by Aeschylus likely appreciates classical Greek drama, themes of justice, and divine intervention. Similar audiences might enjoy works like Sophocles' Antigone and Euripides' Medea for their exploration of moral and societal dilemmas in ancient settings.
1,800 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Suppliants is widely considered the earliest surviving play by Aeschylus, believed to have been first performed around 463 BCE.
The play is notable for featuring one of the earliest uses of the chorus as a central character, comprising the daughters of Danaus who seek asylum in Argos.
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The themes of The Suppliants reflect ancient Greek societal concerns about marriage, citizenship, and the role of the gods in human affairs.
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52
Play • Fiction
Argos, Greece • Mythical Antiquity
2004
Adult
18+ years
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