Iphigenia, Phaedra and Athaliah

Iphigenia, Phaedra and Athaliah by Jean Racine is a reprint edition published by Penguin Publishing Group in 1970. This 320-page work is presented in English and showcases Racine’s departure from the grandiosity of baroque drama, focusing instead on intense psychological realism. The book features three plays that explore themes of power, sacrifice, and obsession, with characters often at the mercy of cruel and vengeful gods.

Readers will find a deep exploration of human emotions and moral dilemmas within these classic narratives. Iphigenia reveals a princess’s tragic submission to her father’s will, while Phaedra delves into a woman’s destructive passion for her stepson. Athaliah presents a ruthless queen’s struggle to maintain her power against divine authority. This edition serves as a significant contribution to the study of drama and literary criticism, reflecting Racine’s influence on European theater and his engagement with ancient and classical themes.