The Contradiction

Although Euripides is known to be controversial in his writing choices, employing stories permeated with large numbers of female characters, his messages in Medea appear to contradict. Medea clearly emulates a strong woman, advocating the rights and independence for females through her actions. However, her overwhelming wish to “wound [her] husband” (26) clouds her sense of reality and causes her to seek vengeance, no matter what the cost.

Today’s society tends to label women as crazy or obsessive, stereotyping females to be dependent on men. Similar to ancient Greece, many people today remain misogynists with patriarchal views. As seen in the play, Medea’s characteristics depict some of these common misconceptions about women, contradicting her feminist, independent attitude. She states, “I may kill the King’s daughter” (25) and “She and all who touch the girl will die in agony” (26), showcasing the extensive measures she will take to have revenge on her husband. She also declares, “For I shall kill my own children” (26). Medea is willing to murder her own kids, and many other people, just to inflict pain upon an unfaithful man. In addition to her ominous plans, when speaking to Jason, Medea’s tone is depicted as enraged and insulting while Jason’s remains calm and collected. Medea’s words serve as evidence to prove the extent of which Jason’s affair has affected her life. Was Euripides utilizing female roles solely to add “drama” to his plays? Did he intend for Medea to truly stand as a passionate woman fighting for justice? Or is she meant to represent the actions of a dramatic, foolish girl? Although writing lead roles for women is a revolutionary act, there still seems to be a sense of superiority of men over women in the lines of Medea.