The Persians and Other Plays

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Response Essay

The Persians and Other Plays, was produced in 472 A.D., and is one of the earliest surviving European dramas. It was part two of a four part play, and received high claim in its release. It is based on the Persian war, and based on tragic events, instead of victory. Its goal seemed to understand the mind frame of a losing enemy (Persians), in the time of the victor (Greeks). It is believed that this play was a series of unfortunate events that the Persians experienced. Interestingly Aeschylus does not refer to the Persians as inferior, but rather equals. And the unfortunate events they underwent were the fault of mistake, not barbaric methodology. He almost has a respect for his enemy combatants, instead of hatred.

The introduction presents the Persians in almost awe-inspiring persona. They are described as great warriors, who are led by a divine ruler. The ships are leaving their land and going to Greece to battle, and the wives are saddened by their husband’s departure. The queen has a dream that foresees the defeat of the Persian army, and her premonition is confirmed when a messenger arrives. The messenger describes how the ships are defeated on the shores of Salamis. The queen believes that the gods were responsible because they did not believe that Xerxes should have gone to conquer Greece. The Isle of Ajax holds the all the “power” of Persia; the men of Persia. The queen concerned that the nation is vulnerable without its men, dresses down and presents offerings to the gods. She believes that if she can humble herself and her people, the gods will shift the tide of this battle on the side of Persia. The ghost of Darius appears during the offerings ceremony, and seems more stunned that Xerxes would try to conquer Athens, rather than the defeat itself. Darius refers