Write a Short note on the ‘Medea-Jason’ Relationship
Medea is a notable literary work by Euripides. 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 Medea.
Answer
In “Medea” (431 BCE), Euripides (c. 480–406 BCE) shows a tragic relationship between husband and wife. Medea and Jason begin with love and trust but end with hatred and revenge. Their broken bond reflects betrayal, selfishness, and pain. It becomes the heart of the whole tragedy.
Medea’s love for Jason is deep and loyal. She helps him win the Golden Fleece. She leaves her father and homeland for him. She even kills her brother to protect Jason. Her love is blind and powerful. Medea’s sacrifices show her full devotion. But Jason forgets her loyalty. Euripides makes the audience pity Medea. Medea says,
“We women are the most unfortunate.”
Her words express her sorrow and helplessness. Their relationship starts with love but soon loses faith and trust.
Jason’s betrayal destroys their marriage. He marries Glauce, the princess of Corinth. He claims he did it for the good of his family. But his aim is power and wealth. Medea calls him a coward and liar. Jason says,
“With no female sex … men would be rid of all their troubles.”
His words show pride and arrogance. He values ambition over love. His betrayal turns Medea’s love into hatred. Jason’s selfish act becomes the cause of their tragedy.
Medea’s revenge completes the tragedy. She kills Glauce, Creon, and even her own children. Her actions come from deep pain. Jason loses everything—his new wife, his sons, and his peace. The Chorus says,
“It’s a fearful thing for men to spill the blood of gods.”
Their relationship, once built on love, ends in blood and sorrow. It becomes a story of pain caused by betrayal and revenge.
Thus, the relationship between Medea and Jason begins with love but ends with destruction. Jason’s greed and betrayal break Medea’s heart. Euripides shows how pride and selfishness can turn true love into tragedy.