Looking at Persians

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"Persians" by Aeschylus is an ancient Greek tragedy that tells the story of Greece's victory over the Persian King Xerxes. The play was written and performed in 472 BC, eight years before the actual event. This volume explores how Aeschylus responded to this historical turning point and how his audience reacted to the play. It also discusses the play's relationship with earlier lost tragedies, its central themes, and how it may have been staged in fifth-century Athens. The twelve essays in the volume are written by prominent international academics and offer insightful analyses of the play from various perspectives. The book is intended for readers of all ages and interests, including school students, undergraduates, teachers, and those interested in drama. It also includes an accurate English translation of the play by David Stuttard.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 17 November 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Persians, a remarkable Greek tragedy, stands as a singular testament to history, chronicling Greece's triumphant victory over the formidable Persian King, Xerxes, eight years before the play's composition and initial performance in 472 BC. Delving into the depths of Looking at Persians, we explore the profound response of Aeschylus to this pivotal moment in Athenian history, as well as the potential reactions of his audience to his theatrical masterpiece. This comprehensive volume not only examines the play's relationship with earlier lost tragedies but also delves into its central themes, encompassing war, nature, and the profound value of human life. Furthermore, it investigates the potential staging of Persians in fifth-century Athens and its enduring performances in contemporary times. Comprising twelve essays authored by esteemed international academics, these essays provide insightful and thought-provoking analyses of the play from diverse perspectives, including performance, history, and society. This volume is designed to appeal to a wide range of readers, from school students and undergraduates to teachers and enthusiasts of drama, including practitioners. Additionally, it features an accurate, accessible, and performance-friendly English translation of Persians by David Stuttard, ensuring that the timeless words of Aeschylus resonate with audiences worldwide.

Weight: 462g
Dimension: 223 x 147 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350227927