Sophocles' Women of Trachis elicits mixed reviews, praised for its intense emotional depth and exploration of human suffering. Critics commend its powerful character portrayals and tragic themes. However, some find the plot structure uneven and the pacing slow. This classic tragedy remains a compelling study of love and fate, despite its structural flaws.

Readers who appreciate Greek tragedies and complex character studies will enjoy Sophocles' Women of Trachis. Comparable to those who favor Euripides' Medea or Shakespeare's Othello, this work attracts those interested in themes of fate, passion, and human suffering.

In Women of Trachis by Sophocles, Deianeira, wife of Heracles, anxiously awaits his return from war. After learning he has captured Iole, a woman he loves, she sends him a robe smeared with the blood of a centaur, believing it will rekindle his love for her. Instead, the robe causes Heracles immense suffering. Misunderstanding her intentions, Heracles curses Deianeira, who later takes her own life.

Melancholic / Mysterious / Dark / Contemplative

- Women of Trachis is one of the lesser-performed plays by Sophocles, which makes it a hidden gem within his body of work.
- The play is notable for its exploration of themes such as love and suffering, which were innovative for the time and contribute to the complex portrayal of female characters in Greek tragedy.
- Sophocles uses the role of the Chorus in Women of Trachis not only to comment on the action but also to express the collective emotional impact of the events on the community.

**Deianeira**  
The wife of Heracles, depicted as waiting in Trachis during his long absences, hoping for his return. She grapples with her emotions regarding Heracles' new concubine and takes actions aimed at regaining her husband's affection.  

**Heracles**  
A legendary hero known for his strength and labors, referenced often in the play but appearing only towards the end. His character is defined by his intense emotions and actions, which significantly impact those around him.

Sophocles

Adult

Play

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Women of Trachis reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Women of Trachis | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Women of Trachis and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Women of Trachis Summary and Study Guide

Background

Women of Trachis Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Lines 1-496

Women of Trachis Lines 1-496 Summary & Analysis

Lines 497-820

Women of Trachis Lines 497-820 Summary & Analysis

Lines 821-1278

Women of Trachis Lines 821-1278 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Women of Trachis Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Women of Trachis Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Women of Trachis Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Women of Trachis Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Women of Trachis Essay Topics

Women of Trachis

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Women of Trachis?

Reading Age

Book Details