Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides Religiousness of three Greek tragedians

Abstract

The classical Greek drama not only penetrated human nature in deep, but also had a religious contents and context. Tragedians were to some extent theologians. Aeschylus chose mythological subjects. His logical mind pushed him to deterministic fatalism; his sense of order favored interest for stable ethical rules. Apollo and Athena are more personal and friendly than Zeus; Prometheus acts for humans but against the rules of the world. The plot in the Sophocles’ dramas is nearer to human life, but seen in the light of religion. They were marked by the belief in fate, identified with divine will, and therefore apologetically justified. He believed that moral and religious principles are more important than politics. Euripides, contrary to some opinions, was personally religious, even if he asked bold questions concerning the suffering and evil. He voiced criticisms towards gods, but also declared trust in them and painted salvation coming from gods, often in miraculous form. Among the Greek motifs close to Christianity we may stress the sacrifice for others. Justice, love and forgiveness are divine. The questions asked by the great tragedians paved the way to the answer of the Gospel.