Alcestis. In Euripides play, Alcestis, the chorus serves as a way to observe and comment on progression of the characters, forward the action of the play, and evoke sympathy for the hero in the play. Euripides uses the chorus as the most important elem
The chorus has always played an important role in the Ancient Greek dramas. Usually ranging from 15 to 50 citizens, they have different purposes; most commonly, they provide information and insight for the audience to speculate over. In Euripides’ play, Alcestis, the chorus serves as a way to observe and comment on progression of the characters, forward the action of the play, and evoke sympathy for the hero in the play. Euripides uses the chorus as the most important element in his play; without them the audience would not be able to fully appreciate the complexity of his characterization and the subtlety of his plot structure.
The Chorus serves as way for the viewer to better understand the actions of the characters. Throughout the play the Chorus refers to past actions that lead them to believe Admetos is, “A noble man,” (Euripides 49). Although they believe he is dignified, they often question his actions. For example, when Herakles comes to Ademtos’ house he welcomes him in. The Chorus questions the gesture, “Your wife not dead an hour, and you can bear the thought of entertaining guests?” (Euripides 61). The Chorus, along with the viewer, does not understand how such a seemingly dedicated husband can stand the thought of having a visitor in his home when he is mourning. In this scene, the Chorus also questions Admetos for lying to his guest by not informing Herakles his wife has died. A noble man would not lie, nor would he not want to express his grief over the death of his wife. The Chorus not only questions his actions, they intervene as well. When Ademtos’ father, Pheres, comes to Alcestis’ funeral, Admetos begins to fight with him. The chorus tries to mediate, “Stop it, both of you. Haven’t you sorrows enough without this too? Boy, why must you exasperate your father?” (Euripides 67). The Chorus not only tries to stop the fight, but they also comment on why Admetos is yelling at his father. The viewer would assume if Ademtos was such a thoughtful man, he would respect his father; however, as the Chorus points out, he disregards what his father says and shuns him. Throughout the play, the Chorus is constantly drawing the audiences’ attention to the contradictions in Admetos’ behavior, in order to ensure they perceive his true nature and characterization.