Euripides

Date of Birth: 480 BCE

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: 406 BCE

Biography

Euripides was one of the great tragedians of classical Athens, alongside Aeschylus and Sophocles. Born in 480 BCE, Euripides is often celebrated for his complex characters and his ability to delve deeply into the human psyche. His works often explored the darker aspects of human nature and questioned societal norms. Euripides wrote approximately 90 plays, with 18 to 19 surviving in complete form. Among his most famous works are “Medea,” “The Bacchae,” “Hippolytus,” and “Electra.” He is known for his innovative use of deus ex machina to resolve complex plots and for giving a more prominent role to strong female characters in his dramas. Euripides’ influence extended far beyond his lifetime, impacting not just Greek, but also Roman and later European literature.

5 Interesting Facts about Euripides

1. Euripides is believed to have written as many as 90 plays, though only 18 to 19 have survived in their entirety.

2. He was known for his portrayal of strong female characters and often focused on the inner lives and emotions of his characters.

3. Euripides won the first prize at the City Dionysia, a large festival in ancient Athens, only four times during his lifetime.

4. Unlike his contemporaries, Euripides often questioned traditional moral and religious beliefs through his plays.

5. His play “The Bacchae” was performed posthumously and is considered one of his greatest works.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Euripides

1. “Stronger than lover’s love is lover’s hate. Incurable, in each, the wounds they make.”

2. “Talk sense to a fool and he calls you foolish.”

3. “He who overcomes his fears will truly be free.”

4. “When one with honeyed words but evil mind persuades the mob, great woes befall the state.”

5. “Question everything. Learn something. Answer nothing.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As Euripides lived in ancient times, there are no accurate records of his net worth. However, he was not particularly wealthy and often relied on patronage and the income from his plays.