Alcestis

Alcestis is a Greek tragedy written by Euripides one of the great playwrights of ancient Greece. It was first performed in Athens in 438 BC and is based on the mythological character Alcestis the wife of Admetus king of Pherae. The play begins with Admetus learning that he is fated to die soon but he has been granted a reprieve by the god Apollo. However in order to escape death Admetus must find someone to take his place. Alcestis his loyal wife agrees to sacrifice herself in his stead. As the play unfolds Alcestis prepares for her own death while Admetus mourns her loss. However Heracles a friend of Admetus arrives at the palace and is surprised to learn of Alcestis sacrifice. He decides to confront Death himself and is able to wrestle Alcestis back from the underworld returning her to life and reuniting her with her husband. The play explores themes of sacrifice love and the inevitability of death. It also questions the role of the gods in human affairs and the nature of heroism and bravery. Euripides portrays Alcestis as a selfless and noble figure willing to sacrifice herself for the sake of her husband while Admetus struggles with guilt and grief over his role in her death.