Comment on the way of life of Hippolytus.
Phaedra is a notable literary work by Lucius Annaeus Seneca. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, to various questions of Phaedra.
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Comment on the way of life of Hippolytus.
Hippolytus, the son of Theseus and Antiope in “Phaedra” (290 AD) by Seneca (4 BC-AD 65). He chooses a life of simplicity and purity. His way of life is rooted in his love for nature and rejection of women. To him, women are the source of corruption and evil. His lifestyle represents that he loves to follow a naive and independent lifestyle, free from the chaos of the city.
Love for Nature and Simplicity: Hippolytus prefers nature over the comforts of civilization. He does not like the complexities of civil society. He finds peace and freedom in nature. He feels that in nature, he can live a life free from deceit and immorality. His connection to nature proves that he has a great devotion to hunting and love for a “free and innocent life.” Hippolytus says,
There is no life so free and innocent, none which better cherishes the ancient ways, than that which, forsaking cities, loves the woods.(Lines 482-484)
Rejection of Women and Society: Hippolytus’s hate for women drives his decision to isolate himself from society. He believes women are the root of many evils and chooses to avoid them entirely. This belief leads him to reject any involvement in love or relationships. Hippolytus says,
I abominate them all, I dread, shun, curse them all. Be it reason, be it instinct, be it wild rage: ‘tis my joy to hate them.
In Short, Hippolytus’s pursuit of purity and rejection of societal norms lead him to seek freedom in nature. However, his strict beliefs and hate for women isolate him and lead to tragic events.