Aeschylus
Suppliant Maidens (Morshead Translation)
The Suppliants, also known as The Suppliant Maidens or The Suppliant Women, is a captivating play by Aeschylus, likely first performed around 470 BC. Once believed to be the earliest surviving work of Aeschylus due to the unique role of the chorus as the central figure of the story, it is now understood to be one of his later plays, created after The Persians and possibly even after Seven Against Thebes. The drama centers around the Danaids, who form the chorus and serve as the protagonists, fleeing a forced marriage to their Egyptian cousins. Upon reaching Argos, they plead with King Pelasgus for protection. Although he initially hesitates, the Argive peoples decision ultimately favors the Danaids. With joy, Danaus celebrates this outcome, and the Danaids express their gratitude to the Greek gods. Just as peace seems to settle, a herald from Egypt arrives, demanding the return of the Danaids. Pelasgus intervenes, threatening the herald and encouraging the Danaids to seek refuge within the walls of Argos. The play concludes with the Danaids safely retreating, shielded from their pursuers.
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