Module 4: Section 4

Elements of Greek Drama: The Impact of Setting

Amcoemt Greece (776-323 B.C.) is the period in Greek history lasting for close to a millennium, until the rise of Christianity. It is considered by most historians to be the foundational culture of Western Civilization.

As with any play set in a specific city or region (such as Los Angeles, Paris, or Shanghai), Greek dramas that are set in a specific city or region will integrate elements of that locale into the setting and plot. An example of this is the tragic play Medea, which takes place in ancient Corinth.

Medea tells the story of Medea, a former Princess of Colchis (present day Georgia, located on the Black Sea in Eastern Europe), now living in exile in Corinth with her husband the adventurer Jason, and their two sons. As with many examples of classical Greek drama, a great deal has occurred before the play begins. Before their current life in Corinth, Medea was a powerful high priestess of Hecate. She met Jason while he was in Colchis, attempting to obtain a priceless golden fleece. Medea gave up her royal title, family, and duties as High Priestess to help Jason steal the treasure. After being exiled from her own home, they found refuge under the protection of King Creon of Corinth. Jason tells Medea that he plans to abandon her and the children, and is starting a new family with Creon’s daughter, Princess Glauce.

In any context, this would be the beginning of a terrible story of betrayal. However, understanding more about the context of the setting – Ancient Corinth and neighboring Athens - can help you better understand why the events of the play unfold in the way they do.