Multiple Perspectives in "Agamemnon" Anonymous 12th Grade

The play Agamemnon involves a variety of characters who introduce and contribute towards some of the major themes of the play, such as justice and revenge. While the play is dominated by Clytaemnestra and the Chorus, we are introduced to different angles in the story by minor characters, such as Cassandra and the Herald. The diversity of characters plays a large role in Aeschylus’ drama, as they provide the audience with multiple perspectives on the concepts central to the plot. With the introduction of each new character, new ideas are brought about, leaving the audience with an understanding that the characters have different opinions of or knowledge about the events that take place throughout the play. The play lacks on-stage action, but keeps the audience’s interest by allowing audience members to interpret each character’s views. The difference in perspectives adds depth to each character and dramatic interest to the play, and complexity and variety to the dominant themes.

Early in the play, we learn that there is a difference in the characters' beliefs with regard to justice and revenge. When the sacrifice of Iphigenia is discussed, we can see that there is a difference in perspectives between Agamemnon and Clytaemnestra,...