Orestes

About “Orestes”

Orestes is a Greek tragedy that was performed more often on the ancient stage than any other. It tells the story of Orestes, a young man who kills his mother to avenge her murder of his father. Despite being cleared of guilt, he is hunted by the Furies, spirits that seek revenge for his mother’s blood. In the end, he is saved by Apollo, who had ordered the murder of Orestes’ mother. The play is known for its intense and moving storytelling, building steadily to a powerful and dramatic conclusion. It was translated into English in 1995 by Peck and Nisetich.