Evaluate the Illicit Relationship Between Clytemnestra and Aegisthus.
Agamemnon is a notable literary work by Aeschylus. 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 Agamemnon.
Answer
Evaluate the illicit relationship between Clytemnestra and Aegisthus.
In Aeschylus’ (525/524 – 456/455 BC) “Agamemnon” (458 BC), the relationship between Clytemnestra and Aegisthus is driven by revenge and a hunger for power. Their secret affair becomes the foundation of a deadly plot. It led to tragic consequences for the House of Atreus.
Clytemnestra’s Need for Revenge: Clytemnestra’s relationship with Aegisthus is born out of deep bitterness. Her husband, Agamemnon, sacrificed their daughter, Iphigenia, for the sake of the Trojan War. This betrayal fills Clytemnestra with grief and anger. Seeking to avenge her daughter’s death, she finds a partner in Aegisthus, who shares her desire for revenge. She says,
“For me, long since the gushing fount of tears
…………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………
Weeping, the bale-fires, piled for thy return”
These lines express her bitterness and pain that fuel her affair and plot with Aegisthus.
Aegisthus’ Personal Grudge: Aegisthus also seeks revenge for a different reason. The term “Hereditary Guilt” is associated with this incident. His hatred arises from the actions of Agamemnon’s father, Atreus. Atreus had killed Aegisthus’ brothers and served them as a meal to their father. Aegisthus views the chance to murder Agamemnon as an opportunity to avenge his family and reclaim power.
The Deadly Alliance: Clytemnestra and Aegisthus form a dangerous alliance. They carefully plan Agamemnon’s murder, each with their own motives. Clytemnestra pretends to be a loyal and loving wife. However, she secretly maintains a plan to kill her husband upon his return. Aegisthus stays in the background and waits for the right moment to seize control. He says,
“Now by his treasure’s aid
My purpose holds to rule the citizens”
This reveals how their relationship is intertwined with their political ambitions.
The Outcome: After Agamemnon’s death, Aegisthus claims victory and power. The Chorus criticizes Aegisthus for letting Clytemnestra carry out the murder and sees him as cowardly. Their relationship, based on revenge and ambition, ultimately destroys them both.
In short, Clytemnestra and Aegisthus’ illicit relationship is a dark bond rooted in revenge and hatred. It symbolizes the moral decay in the House of Atreus and sets off a chain of tragic events. It leads to further bloodshed and destruction.