Hippolytus+Discussion+Questions

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Time Period
What is the time period and how does it affect the literary style?

A play written in 4th century BC Hippolytus has many newly discovered philosophical properties. As with all mythological contexts there was divine intervention which acts as a catalyst for the events that lead to tragedy.

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Author's Purpose
What is the author's purpose in writing the selected piece?

Hippolytus portrays society’s disregard for rationality in the midst of high emotion. The audience is able to grasp that humanity symbolized by King Theseus when overcome by passion and will irrational and unforgiving.

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Literary techniques
What literary techniques does the author employ in achieving his or her purpose?

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Literature characteristics
How is the literature characteristic of the time period?

Ancient greek mythology heavily focused on dire choices heroes had to make that would define the essence and morality of that hero. If that hero exeriences lack of misjudgment it most likely lead to the downfall of the hero resulting in a tragic hero. Divine intervention was not uncommon and was used as a justification for any course of action. In addition to this Greek literature was heavily focused on revenge and rage.

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