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, and various study materials of Agamemnon.
Answer
Evaluate the illicit relationship between Clytemnestra and Aegisthus. [NU: 2017, 19] ★★★
In “Agamemnon” (458 BC), Aeschylus (525/524–456/455 BC) shows the tragic fall of the House of Atreus. One central theme is the secret affair between Clytemnestra and Aegisthus. Their relationship is not based on love but on revenge, ambition, and shared hatred for Agamemnon.
Revenge Against Agamemnon: Clytemnestra never forgave Agamemnon for sacrificing their daughter, Iphigenia. Aegisthus also hated Agamemnon for his father, Atreus’s, cruelty. Their affair becomes a union of revenge. They plot together to kill Agamemnon. Their bond is less romantic and more political. It serves vengeance and family hatred.
Partnership in Murder: Their relationship gains strength through the act of killing. Clytemnestra carries out the murder of Agamemnon. Aegisthus later claims equal credit for the plan. He calls himself the “avenger” of Thyestes. Their affair is shown as a partnership in crime, tied to blood and betrayal.
“The man who sins is sinned against, the killer pays the price.”
Disruption of Moral Order: Greek society valued loyalty between husband and wife. But Clytemnestra betrays this duty by her affair with Aegisthus. Their secret bond destroys family honor. It shows a collapse of trust, loyalty, and morality. This betrayal adds to the curse of the House of Atreus.
Symbol of Decay and Curse: The affair symbolises the ongoing corruption in the family line. Instead of healing old wounds, it creates new ones. Their passion for revenge continues the curse. Cassandra even predicts more blood will follow their union.
“A house that hates the gods… a human slaughterhouse awash in blood.”
In short, the relationship between Clytemnestra and Aegisthus is built on hatred, not love. It deepens family guilt and fuels revenge. Aeschylus shows it as immoral, destructive, and a key part of the tragic downfall.