Phedra
by Jean Racine trans Julie Rose, Jean Racine, Julie Rose

Racine's 1677 reworking of Euripides's HIPPOLYTUS, celebrated for its tragic construction and the richness of its language.

Consumed by an uncontrollable passion for her young stepson and believing Theseus, her absent husband, to be dead, Phèdra confesses her darkest desires and enters the world of nightmare.

When Theseus returns, alive and well, Phèdra, fearing exposure, accuses her stepson of rape.

Unable to see beyond her impassioned words to his own son's protestations, heartbroken and overcome, Theseus banishes Hippolytus and wishes him dead.

But when the gods are always listening, you should be careful what you wish for.