I read Thyestes by Seneca (translated by E. F. Watling), a tragedy written in the first century AD. This is the first play by Seneca I’ve read, having only read his letters to Lucilius Junior in the past.

Euripides, one of my favorite writers, wrote a play with the same title some 500 years earlier. Unfortunately that work no longer exists, but it’s presumed that Seneca’s Thyestes was modeled upon it.

At first, the play felt much like its Greek tragedy precursors. The language, mood, and atmosphere seemed very Euripidean. However, by the end of the play, this similarity lessened and I was left feeling something was missing. Perhaps the vivid and grotesque brutality of the play affected my reaction; at times the graphic violence felt too extreme, as if it might have been more effective offstage.

After some time has passed, I’ve begun reevaluating my reaction. There is more to the drama than I at first considered. I’m more familiar with the Greek tragedians and the sociopolitical context of their work, and considering such context for Seneca’s Thyestes prompts further reflection.

I plan to read more of Seneca’s tragedies and will hopefully develop a better understanding of his dramatic work.

Does any place in hell

Still lack a tenant? I can furnish one

From my posterity.