Day and Night, Light and Darkness in the Bacchae of Euripides

Abstract

In my paper, I am following the theme of light and darkness in the Bacchae of Euripides. Light and darkness is one of many threads of meaning in the Bacchae. It runs alongside the overall interpretation of the play. Light and darkness are present in the characterisations of Dionysus and Pentheus. More than that, the characterisations through light and darkness change in accordance with the story of the play. A close reading of Bacchae along the lines of light and darkness can, thus, help to determine which evaluations of Pentheus and Dionysus are inscribed in the play. The drama of light and darkness suggests an interpretation of the sparagmos as an expiating sacrifice and the restoration of harmony at the end of the play.

Keywords

• Euripides
• Bacchae
• Light
• Darkness
• Day
• Night