Discuss the Role of the Chorus in “Medea.”

Answer

Discuss the role of the chorus in “Medea.” 

In Medea (431 BC) by Euripides (C.480 BC – C.406 BC), the Chorus plays a vital role in guiding the audience’s emotions and moods. The Chorus is made up of the women of Corinth. They play an important role in the story by sharing thoughts, giving advice, and helping the audience understand what is happening. The Chorus speaks on behalf of common people. They express emotions, fears, and warnings as the tragedy unfolds. Below are simple points explaining the role of the Chorus in this play.

Moral Advice and Warnings: The Chorus serves as the moral voice of the play. They constantly reflect on the actions and decisions of the main characters. They are deeply concerned about Medea’s thoughts. They also expressed worry over the dangerous path she might take. For example, when Medea reveals her plans to kill her children, the Chorus suggests her not to proceed, saying, 

We beg you by your knees… do not butcher your own children.

The Chorus is often the voice of logic. They express the values of traditional Greek society and warn against extreme actions.

Emotional Connection and Sympathy: The Chorus also provides an emotional connection for the audience. They sympathize with Medea’s suffering while still questioning her intentions. They understand the depth of her pain. They realize the betrayal by Jason, who leaves Medea for Glauce. The chorus laments the consequences that arise from it. When Medea mourns her fate, the Chorus sympathizes, 

Unhappy woman, why does your anger fall so heavily upon your heart? 

This empathy allows the audience to connect with Medea’s humanity, even as she plans something horrifying.

Commentary on Gender and Society: The Chorus highlights the struggles faced by women in a patriarchal society. It makes Medea not just a story of personal revenge but also a broader critique of gender roles. They support Medea’s criticism of how women are often treated unfairly in marriage and society, saying, 

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