World Masterpieces 272 Name:_____________________

Phaedra Writing Assignment

Phaedra, pp. 162-200

 Due: Please see our course calendar

Please follow MLA structure throughout your response as well as revise and edit carefully and often.

One key theme of the play Phaedra is the question of moral responsibility.

Consider the character Phaedra—is she a victim or a villain? Remember the setting of the play with the implicit belief that gods and goddesses can control the thoughts and actions of humans. Before you begin forming a response to this question, you might ask how one determines human responsibility in a world governed by gods and goddesses.

 When Phaedra considers her passion for Hippolytus, she sees herself as helpless, being the victim of Venus, the goddess of love. (“Venus fastens on her helpless prey” page 169, line 154).

Writing Assignment Questions:

1. Is Phaedra helpless or is she responsible? Find and present evidence for your position on either side.

2. To end your written response, consider today’s world. Though few of us believe that gods and goddesses control our thoughts and actions, what are some modern excuses for moral failings? Please list three or four and be prepared to discuss them.