https://www.greekmythology.com/Myths/The_Myths/Seven_Against_Thebes/seven_against_thebes.html. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page. Aeschylus expanded the play of characters to allow . When the sons compete for power after their father's downfall, Oedipus curses them to a mutual doom. In this, the only extant tragedy from Aeschylus' trilogy about the House of Oedipus, Thebes is under siege from Polynices, a former prince of Thebes. resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss thenovel. will review the submission and either publish your submission or providefeedback. When the herald announces the new decree after the battle that Polynices body will be left to rot, she refuses, and states she will bury him regardless of the consequences. Its at this point that the Seven Against Thebes enters the play. In Aeschylus play, a messenger appears telling that the Theban soldiers could repel the attack. Upon learning that the person in charge of attacking the seventh gate is his own brother Polyneices, Eteocles announces he will be the defender there even as the Chorus warns against shedding the blood of his brother. Many authors have shared the stories of Greek mythology with the world through their tragedies, and several plays narrate the events of the Seven Against Thebes. THE SEVEN AGAINST THEBES. The seven main entrances to the city are what the seven gates are in "Antigone" by Sophocles (495 B.C.E. When Thebes was made an unique city with Ajax&Diomedes DLC they sure remembered that the city was famously called "Thebes of the seven gates". Sophocles, who introduced the third actor, had already defeated Aeschylus in the preceding year's dramatic competition, so her presence is not necessarily anachronistic and her part is so small that it might have been taken by one of the otherwise non-speaking performers not listed among the regular, speaking actors. The chorus (speaking in a call-and-response structure called a strophe and antistrophe) recounts the history of Laius and Oedipus, bemoaning the misfortune wrought on the city of Thebes by the curse of Cadmus's line. With this in mind, Eteoclesexited through the gate to confront his brother. The sisters then plan for the burial of the brothers in an honored spot by their father. The chorus is dismayed at Eteocles departure and cry out that if each bother slays the other, there will be no family to see to a proper burial. All seven champions are defeated, with the seventh being Eteocles' own brother, Polynices. Eteocles acknowledges the curse upon his father, but decides to allow fate have its day. Summary. The two sons, Eteocles and Polynices, in order to avoid bloodshed, agreed to rule Thebes in alternate years. The First play was Laius, the second was Oedipus, and the third was Seven against Thebes. However, Eteocles exiled his brother from Thebes and claimed the throne for himself. He then argues with Antigone, stressing to her the penalty for disobeying the new King's order. GreekMythology.com editors write, review and revise subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Please Read the Study Guide for The Seven Against Thebes, Impossible Tasks in Seven Against Thebes and Agamemnon, View Wikipedia Entries for The Seven Against Thebes. Eteocles says that he, the ruler steers the ship of state. (Eteocles, the Spy or Messenger or Scout). Seven leaders from each of the two rival armies lined up on either side of the seven gates of Thebes. The understanding of tragedies was mainly inferred from his plays that exist to date. Aeschylus won 1st prize for his tetralogy (the trilogy and a satyr play). When Oedipus, King of Thebes, realized he had married his own mother and had two sons and two daughters with her, he blinded himself and cursed his sons to divide their inheritance (the kingdom) by the sword. When the messenger brings the name of the last and seventh "Champion" to attack the seventh gate, it turns out to be Eteocles' brother Polynices. The play concludes with a split within the Chorus. The Seven Against Thebes December 7, 2021 ~ Apollodora Though greatness drape the man of state, yet none Can see the wishes of the gods undone. The herald who arrived with the news of the council vote argues against Antigones plans and exits to report back to the council of this development. This sets the stage for another tragedy, Antigone by Sophocles, though this ending scene is typically regarded as a later interpolation and not a part of Aeschylus' original tragedy. He then criticizes women in general and these in particular for spreading panic. Both Eteocles and Polynices, sons of Oedipus, wanted the throne, and could not decide who should have it. 2015, The SEVEN AGAINST THEBES: Commanders Adrastus 1. 941-995.This is the antiphonal dirge sung by the funeral procession, notably Antigone and Ismene.They sing about how each brother was killed at the hand of the others. Sign up now for weekly facts, the latest blogs, and interesting features. WikiMatrix. 2. Hence, Oedipus cursed his sons to die at the hands of the other in their fight for the throne. Apple, the Apple logo, iPhone and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and thissection. Creon bridled his sense of utter despair, while Eteocles assigned seven bands of men to the seven guardians of the gates, dispatched rider after rider to replace them, and set up light infantry behind the shield-bearers, so that every site where attack was probable might be fully protected. He has a curse laid upon him and his brother Polynices by their father, Oedipus, which prevents them from peacefully settling their disagreement about who should be King of Thebes. The Seven Against Thebes study guide contains a biography of Aeschylus, literature essays, a complete e-text, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis. We are thankful for their contributions and encourage you to make yourown. If until now he was known for his ambiguous little poems, now he wants to be as clear as water. Aeschylus is credited with first having more than one actor on the stage at a time (typically at max two characters), but the chorus is nevertheless an integral part of his tragedies. The names might stem from an earlier literary source, for instance, or simply be later variations on the Aeschylean list of 467 B.C. Download Characters Character Analysis Character Map Seven Against Thebes | Characters Share Context Character Analysis Have study documents to share about Seven Against Thebes? Manage SettingsContinue with Recommended Cookies. She has a wide range of interests ranging from ancient cultures and mythology to Harry Potter and gardening. The enemy is just outside the gate to the city, waiting for the fight to commence. The Question and Answer section for The Seven Against Thebes is a great The play tells the story of the conflict between Eteocles and Polynices, sons of Oedipus, who fought over the throne of Thebes. The Herald warns her not to be disobedient to the state and Antigone warns the Herald not to order her about. The acropolis of Thebes in front of the royal palace. At this moment, the lifeless bodies of Eteocles and Polynices are seen on the stage. Archaeological excavations in and around Thebes have revealed a Mycenaean settlement and clay tablets written in the Linear B . logo Seven Against Thebes was first produced in 467 BC in Athens, as the third part of a trilogy based on the attack of an Argive army on Thebes. These were Tydeus, Capaneus, Adrastus, Hippomedon, Parthenopeus, Amphiaraus, and Polynices himself. For MLA style citation use: GreekMythology.com, The Editors of Website. Polynices went to Argos . Polyniceswent to Argos, where he raised an army that was led by seven leaders. "Seven Against Thebes." Touched the top. other All action in the tragedy takes place inside the city walls. Typically a group of fifty divided into two groups, they sing in unison in odes, which is divided into the strophe, antistrophe, and finally the epode. This is where Seven Against Thebes begins. Who attacked which gate in Seven Against Thebes? In Aeschylus' play, a messenger appears telling that the Theban soldiers could repel the attack. Gill, N.S. The throne, which faced the main entrance, was probably on an elevated platform. GreekMythology.com, T. Editors of Website. Accessed 16 November 2022. Copyright 1999 - 2022 GradeSaver LLC. Gill, N.S. The Question and Answer section for The Seven Against Thebes is a great - From King Laius to the downfall of Eteocles and Polynices, the story of the royal family of Thebes faced several misfortunes. Website. https://www.greekmythology.com/Myths/The_Myths/Seven_Against_Thebes/seven_against_thebes.html. Website, July 11, 2015. Eteocles, son of Oedipus and ruler of Thebes as a result of his fathers exile, has sent out a call for every man of every age to arrive in the city prepared for battle. Plot Summary of Seven Against Thebes by Aeschylus. They have four children: Eteocles, Polynices, Antigone, and Ismene. There is controversy about whether the last episode in the play was a later interpolation. Sister to Antigone and also Eteocles and Polynices, she appears with her sister Antigone at the end of the play. In the following act of the play, a messenger appeared saying that the attackers had been repelled, and the bodies of the two brothers were brought on stage. The brothers Polynices and Eteocles met and fought against each other at the seventh gate. He then dispenses Eteocles order for the responding champion back out to the battlefield. If things go well the gods are thanked. Zeus struck Capaneus with a lightning bolt, and the others perished at the sword of the soldiers. Eteocles will fight his brother at the gate. The Chorus rejects this attempt at appeasement proceed with their wails of warning. 78-164.The chorus of Theban maidens is in despair hearing the charging army. The Seven Against Thebes They build an army with the seven greatest warriors: Polyneices, Adrastus, Tydeus, Capaneus, Hippomedon, Parthenopaeus, Amphiaraus, Adrastus. When the time came for Polynices to rule, Eteocles refused to leave the throne, and the conflict began. ).Specifically, Thebes is one of the most famous cities in ancient Greece. Aeschylus ' Seven Against Thebes ( Hepta epi Thbas; Latinized as Septem contra Thebas) was originally performed at the City Dionysia of 467 B.C., as the final tragedy in a trilogy about the family of Oedipus (aka the House of Labdacus). He describes each warrior, particularly their shield, their proficiency in combat, and the god(s) that they pay homage to. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of The Seven Against Thebes by Aeschylus. And so, Aeschylus writes Eteocles as his hero. Amphiarus and Eriphyle and the magic necklace Brother in law of Adrastus. Eteocles acknowledges the curse upon his father, but decides to allow fate have its day. are The son of Oedipus, previous King of Thebes, and brother to Polynices, Antigone, and Ismene. Aeschylus won 1st prize for his tetralogy (the trilogy and a satyr play). Fratricide, incest, and prophecies are ever-present themes in the Greek myths, and the story of the Seven Against Thebes is no exception, containing elements of all this. They say it would be a pity were the city to be enslaved, sacked, and dishonored, the maidens raped. The myths of the seven fighters who stormed the gates of Thebes are worth knowing. Greek plays are traditionally restricted to only one character on the stage at the time. Just before Eteocles confronted his brother at the seventh gate, he remembered his father's curse that the two brothers would divide the kingdom by the sword. 274-355.Still worried, they pray to the gods to spread panic among the enemy. You can help us out by revising, improving and updating Eteocles and Polynices: Cursed Brothers and Sons of Oedipus. Eteocles (ee- TEE -oh-kleez), the son of Oedipus and grandson of Laius. The chorus begs him not to. During the battle, they were confronted at the seven gates of Thebes by an equal number of defenders, whose names were Melanippus, Polyphontes, Megareus, Hyperbius, Actor, Lasthenes and Eteocles. The subject matter of an ancient Greek tragedy is this time the means of delivering a counter-revolutionary argument. The basic question is this: do the names preserve the memory of actual fortifications, or are they purely the Read the Study Guide for The Seven Against Thebes, Impossible Tasks in Seven Against Thebes and Agamemnon, View Wikipedia Entries for The Seven Against Thebes. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Which Argos member was one of the Seven Against Thebes? The scout enters with news about which of the attackers will lead the attack against each of the citys seven gates. Not affiliated with Harvard College. thissection. An editor Nov 16, 2022. In the end, they decided to share the throne, with Eteocles taking the first turn. As the gates are quite close to each other, they allow defender to launch some quick and surprising attacks on the besieging army. Who were the Seven Against Thebes? Adrastus, although always the leader of the expedition against Thebes, was not always counted as one of the Seven champions. Aeschylus' Seven Against Thebes (Hepta epi Thbas; Latinized as Septem contra Thebas) was originally performed at the City Dionysia of 467 B.C., as the final tragedy in a trilogy about the family of Oedipus (aka the House of Labdacus). After you claim a section youll have 24 hours to send in a draft. It also showed the gate the hero fought at and which Theban champions they were killed by. 1045-1070.The Chorus reviews the situation and decides to go help Antigone with the illicit burial of Polynices. Eteocles warns them again to restrain their panic and then goes off a tangent about the weakness of women. Aeschylus was a tragedian from Greece, whose plays are still popular among readers nowadays. In Aeschylus' tragedy Seven Against Thebes, Hippomedon is one of the seven champions who attack the seven gates of Thebes. He didn't want to go, because he saw a prophecy that if he went he would die. She has been featured by NPR and National Geographic for her ancient history expertise. Heres a closer look. This act of attack immediately assigns the elder child into the 'villain' character, rather than the selfish younger son who kicked him out in the first place. According to the myths, neither Eteocles nor Polynices supported Oedipus when the people of Thebes decided to cast him out. He says he will post himself and 6 other men at the gates. Aeschylus writes Seven Against Thebes and wins the Dionysia. college projects, free online courses) as long as you. The story is another example of the Greek worldview that fate and destiny cant be thwarted, and what is to be will be. InSeven Against Thebes,Eteocles remembers his fathers curse just before delving into the mortal fight against his brother. Polynices (a son of the famous Oedipus), leading a band of Greek warriors from Argos, attacks the city of Thebes. This philosophy astounds the Chorus who lament the possibility of each brother being slayed and leaving no one behind to oversee a proper burial for both. In Aeschylus' tragedy Seven Against Thebes, Hippomedon is one of the seven champions who attack the seven gates of Thebes. What is the Hungry Ghost for Buddhists? The War of the Seven Against Thebes was the result of a succession dispute to the throne of Thebes. ETEOCLES. "Seven Against Thebes" (Gr: "Hepta epi Thebas" ; Lat: "Septem contra Thebas" ) is a tragedy by the ancient Greek playwright Aeschylus . . When . Though Eteocles dies, the invasion if defeated and the "Seven Against Thebes" are also destroyed. They behave as though the city is collapsing. 82. Seven Against Thebes . 1:5). Seven Against Thebes was first produced in 467 BC in Athens, as the third part of a trilogy based on the attack of an Argive army on Thebes. Written by people who wish to remainanonymous. Of these four plays, only Seven Against Thebes has survived. The chorus responds fearfully to the descriptions (taking the shield device to be an accurate picture of the man carrying it). LibriVox recording of Seven Against Thebes by Aeschylus. The two brothers had initially agreed to share the throne, and rule in an alternating fashion. The Spy brings news to the chorus of the events at the gates. The line numbers do match the Perseus online edition, especially at the point of the funeral dirge. Gill is a Latinist, writer, and teacher of ancient history and Latin. Polynices, with a severely bruised ego, amasses a foreign army to take back his hometown. https://www.greekmythology.com/Myths/The_Myths/Seven_Against_Thebes/seven_against_thebes.html. Here is a list of the seven Argive champions who fought against Thebes. Notable writers of Ancient Greece focused their works on this myth, emphasizing its importance. He had many Thracians in his army and one of them . ThoughtCo, Nov. 14, 2020, thoughtco.com/plot-summary-of-seven-against-thebes-by-aeschylus-116741. The scout delivering this news takes leave, Eteocles prays to Zeus and the Chorus laments and begs for protection from the gods. During the battle, they were confronted at the seven gates of Thebes by an equal number of defenders, whose names were Melanippus, Polyphontes, Megareus, Hyperbius, Actor, Lasthenes and Eteocles. Update this section Who attacked the seven gates of Thebes? They were chosen by Adrastus, the king of Argos, to be the captains of an Argive army whose purpose was to restore Oedipus' son Polynices to the Theban throne. The seven protecting Thebes were: Polynices and his seven champions died in the fight. Plot Summary of the Episodes and Stasima of "Oedipus Tyrannos," by Sophocles. GreekMythology.com Who was King Solomon? In Aeschylus' tragedy Seven In Greek mythology, the Seven against Thebes were seven champions who made war on Thebes. It also showed the gate the hero fought at and which Theban champions they were killed by. The bodies arrive, followed by Ismene and Antigone, sisters to each other and to both the dead brothers. [2] They were chosen by Adrastus, the king of Argos, to be the captains of an Argive army whose purpose was to restore Oedipus ' son Polynices to the Theban throne. In the end, they could not escape their fates, dying according to the prophecy of Oedipus. The Herald says that the council of elders have decreed an honorable burial for Eteocles, but that his brother, a traitor, may not be buried. Thebes (/ i b z /; Greek: , Thva; Ancient Greek: , Thbai [tbai]) is a city in Boeotia, Central Greece.It played an important role in Greek myths, as the site of the stories of Cadmus, Oedipus, Dionysus, Heracles and others. will review the submission and either publish your submission or providefeedback. At this moment, the lifeless bodies of Eteocles and Polynices are seen on the stage. He bears the image of a fire-breathing typhon on his shield and attacks the gate of Athena Onca, and is confronted by Hyperbius, son of Oenops. 2015, The brothers have each killed each other. The scout returns with news that Thebes has successfully defended six of the gates, but the seventh gate was the scene of a tragic encounter that took the life of both sons of Oedipus. "The Seven Against Thebes Summary". . Japanese Obon Festival Everything You Need to Know. Aeschylus describes him as very large and powerful. (2020, November 14). He was the only leader of the Seven to survive the war. The story of Seven Against Thebes is one of the plays that were written by the great tragedian Aeschylus. GreekMythology.com https://www.greekmythology.com/Myths/The_Myths/Seven_Against_Thebes/seven_against_thebes.html. Thus, the "Chorus" is who the main character on the stage typically converses with. Seven Against Thebes. The drama that unfolds has the mysterious resonance of an ancient ceremony, as .more Get A Copy The Magnificent Seven (1960) written by William Roberts takes the idea of seven great warriors in Aeschylus's Seven Against Thebes and creates a modern movie demonstration where these men face against immeasurable odds in order to reestablish power to the rightful leader. Then, Oedipus cursed them for their greed. Not affiliated with Harvard College. trademarks of Google Inc. GreekMythology.com Copyright 1997-2021. Polyneices, Amphiaraos, Adrastos, and 4 others who disagrees with attacking thebes? Last Updated on May 5, 2015, by eNotes Editorial. While she is addressed, she has no speaking lines in the play. Upload them to earn free Course Hero access! There are 7 gates in the protective walls of Thebes and 7 valiant Greeks fight on either side of these entry points. The story ended there; however, Sophocles wrote the continuation of the story in his tragedy Antigone.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'greekmythology_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_3',134,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-greekmythology_com-medrectangle-3-0'); See Also: Oedipus, Eteocles, Polynices, Tydeus, Capaneus, Adrastus, Hippomedon, Amphiaraus, Melanippus, Megareus, Actor, Antigoneif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[970,250],'greekmythology_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_2',121,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-greekmythology_com-medrectangle-4-0'); Written by: The Editors of GreekMythology.com. Clansmen of Cadmus, at the signal given By time and season must the ruler speak Who sets the course and steers the ship of State With hand upon the tiller, and with eye Watchful against the treachery of sleep. The myths of Thebes remain as one of the most widespread tales of ancient Greece, offering endless opportunities for scholarly studies of the differences and similarities in the plays from the authors of antiquity. Who leads the seven champions? refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions. He was the only leader of the Seven to survive the war. The exodus is the final, leaving-the-stage choral ode. The twins Eteocles and Polyneices, who had been cursed by their father, Oedipus, failed to agree on which of them was to succeed to the Theban throne and decided to rule in alternate years. GradeSaver, 24 September 2016 Web. After the ruin and exile of Oedipus, the king of Thebes, his sons, Eteocles and Polynices, fall into dispute, each . "Plot Summary of Seven Against Thebes by Aeschylus." Polynices' attack on his native city fulfills a paternal curse, but the action that precipitated it was his brother Eteocles' unexpected refusal to surrender the throne at the end of his year. Separating the Man from the Myth, Medusa Symbolizing the Power of the Feminine. Did Thebes defeat Sparta? Eteocles prays to the gods again and promises to offer sacrifices and trophies in the event Thebes is defended from the attackers. They are a guide to help the audience follow the action. Eteocles is the lonely main character of the tragedy. However, when Eteocles' time finished and it was Polynices' turn to rule, Eteocles refused and exiled his brother. The Seven against Thebes were seven champions in Greek mythology who made war on Thebes. The Origins of the Seven Against Thebes The origins of the war occur with the sons of Oedipus disputing the throne of Thebes. Dani Rhys has worked as a writer and editor for over 15 years. They pray to the gods for help so they don't become enslaved. If badly, the king is blamed. Antigone's Monologue in the Classic Play by Sophocles, Parode and Related Terms in Ancient Greek Tragedy and Comedy, Sophocles' Play: 'Oedipus the King' in 60 Seconds, Aristophanes, the Ancient Greek Comedy Writer, Thomas George Tucker's edition of Aeschylus', M.A., Linguistics, University of Minnesota. In the end, they could not escape their . The first two plays (called Laius and Oedipus) and the satyr play which concluded the performance (Sphinx) have been lost. The play expands on the Theban legend that predates it, and it picks up where Aeschylus' Seven Against Thebes ends. If the fates rule against him, so be it. Around the stage are statues of various gods, an altar. Best summary PDF, themes, and quotes. For this reason, the first song of the chorus is called the parodos (or eisodos because the chorus enters at this time), although the subsequent ones are called stasima, standing songs. Best summary PDF, themes, and quotes. He says the city is safe thanks to the single-handed combat between the men at each gate. Apollo swore that any son would kill King Laius: such did Oedipus fulfill. In the distance may be discerned the fortressed walls of the city. While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies. Copyright Symbol Sage 2022 All Rights Reserved. The unnamed messenger is the character who relays to Eteocles the states of affairs on the battlefield, particularly which enemy Argive champion is attacking each gate. He is referred to as the father of tragedy, since most genres were based on his works. Attack on Thebes 1) One Theban to defend each gate of Thebes, a man with the Argives to attack it 2) Eteocles is paired with Polyneices 3) they both die 4) Only Adrastos escapes back to Argos 5) Thebes is spared Who are The Seven Against Thebes? In both works, the previous . To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. The production won first prize in the competition for that year. That is, opposite the entrance to the hall. Sexton, Timothy. WikiMatrix. Seven Against Thebes 2nd greatest war in Greek myth, Aeschylus' Seven against Thebes and Euripides' Phoenician Women work with this myth, Oedipus has left Thebes, Eteocles and Polynices will rule Thebes, agree to share power and rule Thebes in alternate years "Seven Against Thebes". All seven champions are defeated, with the seventh being Eteocles' own brother, Polynices. ThoughtCo. - 405 B.C.E. GradeSaver, 5 February 2017 Web. Adrastus, king of Argos, was the leader of the Seven champions. The episodes, like acts, follow the parados and stasima. The Seven Against Thebes is Antn Arrufat's declaration of war. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/plot-summary-of-seven-against-thebes-by-aeschylus-116741. During the battle, they were confronted at the seven gates of Thebes by an equal number of defenders, whose names were Melanippus, Polyphontes, Megareus, Hyperbius, Actor, Lasthenes and Eteocles. https://www.thoughtco.com/plot-summary-of-seven-against-thebes-by-aeschylus-116741 (accessed December 12, 2022). An editor Sister to Eteocles and Polynices, and thus daughter of Oedipus, she appears at the tail end of the play. They offer commentary, analyses, insight, and even debate on to the actions being undertaken. A messenger announces that the defenders have staved off the Argive warriors at six of the seven gates, thus saving . App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Android, Google Play and the Google Play Only seven tragedies have survived intact: The Persians, Seven against Thebes, The Suppliants, the trilogy known as The Oresteia, consisting of the three tragedies Agamemnon, The Libation Bearers and The Eumenides, together with Prometheus Bound (whose authorship is disputed . resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss thenovel. Once the messenger announces Eteocles and Polynices death at the seventh gate, the Herald appears to announce the new King. Copyright 1999 - 2022 GradeSaver LLC. You can freely use the content on this page for non-commercial reasons (homework, lessons, school essays or The seven individuals who stand against Thebes and attempt to overtake it with their army from Argos. You can help us out by revising, improving and updating countries. Usually the Seven were Polynices, Tydeus, Amphiaraus, Capaneus, Parthenopaeus, Hippomedon, and Adrastus or Eteoclus, whenever Adrastus is excluded. He was a participant in the war of the Seven Against Thebes. It concerns the battle between an Argive army led by Polynices and the army of Thebes led by Eteocles and his supporters. GreekMythology.com The play "The Seven Against Thebes" begins after Oedipus is blinded and driven out of Thebes and his twin sons are fighting over the throne. SEVEN AGAINST THEBES concerns a battle between the sons of Oedipus for control of Thebes. "Plot Summary of Seven Against Thebes by Aeschylus." When the last man is named, it is Polynices, whom Eteocles says he will fight. Polynices left for Argos, where he would marry Princess Argeias. Eteocles arranges his own champions to meet the enemy but saves the best for himself -- the Seventh Gate, to be attacked by his brother Polyneices. Gill, N.S. In Aeschylus version, the events end after the death of Eteocles and Polynices. based on their working experience or advanced studies. Meanwhile, a council meeting has determined that Eteocles will receive a heros burial, but the body of Polyneiceswho would have lain waste to Thebeswill be left to rot unburied and food for scavenging birds. The production won first prize in the competition for that year. Update this section! Antigone responds that if none of the Cadmeans will bury Polynices, then she will. Upon learning that the person in charge of attacking the seventh gate is his own brother Polyneices, Eteocles announces he will be the defender there even as the Chorus warns against shedding the blood of his brother. He acknowledges the curse of his father, Oedipus, but Eteocles says that fate will determine the outcome, and if the gods are determined that he shall be destroyed, then this will happen. The trilogy's first two plays, Laius and Oedipus, as well as the satyr play Sphinx, are no longer extant. Find a summary of this and each chapter of Seven Against Thebes! He married his daughters to the two exiles: Argia 1 to Theban Polynices and Deipyle to Calydonian Tydeus 2, and having promised his sons-in-law to restore them both to their native lands he raised an army in order to march first against Thebes. 807-995.The chorus reiterates the conclusion of the boys' father's curse. GreekMythology.com She holds a Masters degree in Linguistics and Education, and has also studied Political Science, Ancient History and Literature. The Seven Against Thebes essays are academic essays for citation. Eteocles takes his leave and the Chorus launches into lamentations and wailings again. The herald later informs us that for his honorable service, he is to be given a proper civil burial, in accordance with the honors befitting of a King. Word Count: 1035. Amphiaraos, the seer After King Oedipus left his city and cursed the princes, Polynices and his brother, Eteocles, decided to rule . Long ago, Laius, the king of Thebes, was warned by the oracle of Apollo that, should he beget a son, this act would bring. GreekMythology.com, T. Editors of Website (2015, July 11). Among other issues, it requires the presence of a third speaker, Ismene. At this point, he dies. The fate of the seven champions who tried to assault the city became a famous story in Greek mythology. Eteocles chides the chorus for shrieking by the altars saying it doesn't help the army. WikiMatrix. Website, 11 Jul. These notes were contributed by members of the GradeSaver community. This is based on Thomas George Tucker's edition of Aeschylus' The Seven Against Thebes, which includes Greek, English, notes, and details on the transmission of the text. Unfortunately, the first two plays of the trilogy, called Laius and Oedipus, are mostly lost, and only a few fragments remain in existence. It is the story of the war the broke out after Oedipus was exiled from the city of Thebes, and his sons Eteocles and Polynices ascended to the throne. Oedipus, the great king of seven-gated Thebes, who had defeated the riddling Sphinx, has discovered that he killed his father Laius and married his mother Jokasta. Antigone makes a vow to bury Polyneices in direct violation of the order of the council. Thus, at the beginning of the play, Eteocles is preparing Thebes against the incoming Argive invasion led by his brother Polynices. He also announces the new decree(s) of the king, which mainly states that Eteocles will receive an honorable burial while Polynices will not. The chorus says it heard the army at the gates and was afraid and is asking the gods for help since it is in the power of gods to do what humans can't. . The Spy says that the Argive warriors are at the walls of Thebes about to choose which gate to man. Anonymous "The Seven Against Thebes Characters". Accessed 16 November 2022. We are thankful for their contributions and encourage you to make yourown. Half go off to accompany the body of Eteocles and half choose to follow Antigone with her plans to disregard the council ruling and bury her other brother. The fight between the two brothers and their champions has inspired a variety of plays and tragedies. He ends up choosing himself to go fight and defend the seventh gate since there is no one else left to do so. Seven Against Thebes | Study Guide Aeschylus Study Guide Documents Q&As Discussions Download a PDF to print or study offline. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of The Seven Against Thebes by Aeschylus. Seven Against Thebes . Adrastus, king of Argos, was the leader of the Seven champions. The chorus of women hears the din of the battle at the gate. In Seven Against Thebes, . The Chorus is reminded that while they mourn both brothers, there is also cause for celebration: the curse of Oedipus is now over. These two parts led to the events and ultimately the war of the third section. Eteocles and Polynices faced one another in front of the seventh gate. Polynices went back to Argos, where he would recruit the seven champions who would storm the seven gates of Thebes with him. N.S. He has ordered all the men who can fight, even those too young and too old. As the story goes, Oedipus, the king of Thebes, unknowingly had killed his father and married his mother, fulfilling a prophecy in the process. Over against the gate. 1 yr. ago. For if all go aright, thank Heaven, men say, But if adversely---which may God forefend!--- King of Argos and son of Talaus. All Rights Reserved. The first two plays (called Laius and Oedipus) and the satyr play which concluded the performance (Sphinx) have been lost. You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this section. "Seven Against Thebes". This pleading results in chastisement from Eteocles and a quick promise of stoning if they do stop inciting ear and panic in the citizenry. Aeschylus, Euripides, and Sophocles all wrote about the Theban myths. When the truth came out, his mother/wife killed herself in shame, and Oedipus was exiled from his city. THE ATTACK UPON THEBES. 707-776.The chorus and reveal the details of the family curse. As the play opens, the seven captains of Polynices stand ready to storm the seven gates of the city, with the seven heroes of Eteocles opposing them. Throughout the play, he gives orders to the messenger, mostly detailing which Theban champion will meet each Argive champion that appears in the seven city gates. Seven Against Thebes Revised by Gregory Nagy Eteocles Dwellers of the city of Cadmus, at the signal given by time and season must the ruler speak who sets the course and steers the ship of state with hand upon the tiller and with eye watchful against the treachery of sleep. The late king Oedipus had left the throne to his two sons; Eteocles and Polynices, who alternated their rule every year. Seated on his throne, the king would therefore command a view of the entrance and court beyond, through the middle avenue of columns (see on ch. Sophocles, on his part, continues the story in his tragedy, Antigone. Eteocles responds by deciding who will be in charge of defending each of those gates. Sometimes referred to as Oedipodea or Aeschylus' Theban production, the trilogy won the first prize for tragedy at the City Dionysia. The trilogy won the first prize at the City Dionysia. Seven Against Thebes The seven individuals who stand against Thebes and attempt to overtake it with their army from Argos. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device.We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development.An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. The oracle had been fulfilled. This apparently does the trick and the Chorus finally agrees to hold back. Eteocles tells them their noise will bring the ruin of the city. Eteocles decides which of his men is best suited to go against the specifics of shield + character flaw of the Argives. The chorus says it was at the instigation of the Erinyes (Furies). This led Polynices to assemble an army to take back the city. Other stories tell that after Eteocles refused to leave the throne, Polynices went looking for Oedipus so that he could help him. First performed in 467 BC, Seven Against Thebes was the third play in a trilogy which included Laius and Oedipus; both of these plays, in addition to the accompanying satyr play Sphinx, are now no longer extant. After you claim a section youll have 24 hours to send in a draft. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. The result, logically, is murky enough. Chapter Summary for Aeschylus's Seven Against Thebes, episode 2 summary. These were Tydeus, Capaneus, Adrastus, Hippomedon, Parthenopeus, Amphiaraus, and Polynices himself. When Eteocles sat in Thebes as king, A Spy Antigone (Sister to Eteocles) Ismene (Sister to Eteocles and Antigone) Messenger Chorus (Of Theban Women) Soldiers and armed guards Various citizens Thebes just before dawn. The Seven Against Thebes essays are academic essays for citation. He describes their characters and their matching shields. The line of succession after Oedipus downfall was unclear. This battle is the subject of Aeschylus' tragedy Seven Against Thebes. Thebes is under siege and he is trying to organise a counter-attack, in a battle doomed to end without a real winner. The divisions of ancient plays were marked by interludes of choral odes. These notes were contributed by members of the GradeSaver community. The Seven Against Thebes study guide contains a biography of Aeschylus, literature essays, a complete e-text, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis. The term "Seven Against Thebes", in Greek mythology, refers to a war which saw "the Seven" commanders lead an Argive army against the city state of Thebes. GreekMythology.com, The Editors of Website. The Seven Against Thebes is the third part of Aeschylus trilogy about Thebes. The troops of Philip of Macedonia unsuccessfully stormed Thebes several times and the city definitely did not want to surrender. More books than SparkNotes. . 1-77. Aeschylus describes him as very large and powerful. Seven Against Thebes, in Greek mythology, the seven champions who were killed fighting against Thebes after the fall of Oedipus, the king of that city. The legend of the Seven Hills of Plovdiv. The brothers Polynices and Eteocles met and fought against each other at the seventh gate. Here is a list of the seven Argive champions who fought against Thebes. If the fates rule against him, so be it. Narrative Topography in Aeschylus' Seven against Thebes 11 these names to actual gates in Thebes. The Spy informs Eteocles of the identity of each of the Argives and allies who will attack the gates of Thebes. In Aeschylus tragedy, the seven fighting against Thebes were: On the side of the Thebans, seven champions were defending the gates. More books than SparkNotes. Then the commander ordered - the one who first climbs on the fortress wall, will win the management of the city as a prize. He bears the image of a fire-breathing typhon on his shield and attacks the gate of Athena Onca, and is confronted by . She works as the chief editor of Symbol Sage but also takes the time to write on topics that interest her. His sons each sought to steer the ship of state, But could not countermand the will of Fate. Website, 11 Jul. 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