Cassandra in "Agamemnon"

Analytical Essay # 64866

English > Analysis
Literature > Greek and Roman

An analysis of the character of Cassandra as a crucial catalyst in Aeschylus' "Agamemnon".

1,070 words () | 0 sources | 2005 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper examines how the character of Cassandra in the ancient drama "Agamemnon", first in the Oresteia trilogy written by the Greek playwright Aeschylus, initially may seem relevant only as a secondary character who appears in a minor scene. It attempts to show how Cassandra provides very necessary, crucial elements to the plot and dramatic action which help to portray Aeschylus' messages concerning justice and vengeance. It also looks at how one of the most important aspects of Cassandra's character is her unique style of prophetic vision, which allows her to foresee the past, present and future, yet denies her the luxury of actually being believed in her predictions.

From the Paper:

"One basic reason why Cassandra apparently does not actively assist the play in advancing its dramatic action is that she does not actually act at all. Her character only speaks and passively conveys information to the chorus and audience about what will happen, instead of aggressively making things happen. Despite this fact, the information with which she provides us is crucial to our comprehensive understanding of the entire Oresteia trilogy and its background. In particular, Cassandra aids us by developing the theme of justice as well as by informing the audience of essential background knowledge."