Speech and Silence Hippolytus
Explore the themes of speech and silence in Hippolytus:
Euripides adopts the themes of speech and silence within Hippolytus in order to enable plot progression, to create dramatic effect and to develop his characterisation of key individuals such as Aphrodite, Phaedra, the Nurse, Theseus and Hippolytus himself. Through exploration of the themes in relation to the characters and chronologically it is clear that the sporadic pattern of speech and silence creates suspense and induces a far more intrinsic and natural response among the audience.
Firstly, in the outset of the play, Aphrodite’s speech is necessary for both plot development and characterisation. Her contempt towards Hippolytus and her dark intentions are at first revealed to the audience, as she proclaims that ‘death’s gates are wide open’ for Hippolytus who she will punish ‘this very day’. Moreover, one could also comment on Aphrodite’s opening statement, "I am named in earth and heaven the Cyprian, Aphrodite." Aphrodite identifies herself as one who 'is named' a god instead of simply 'being' a god. The goddess is presented, in this opening scene, as being greatly aware of her own importance and reliant upon speech in order to command her authority.
In contrast, the theme of silence also plays a subtle role in this opening scene of Hippolytus. A sense of stillness is created by the silence just before the opening of the play before the speech of Aphrodite which reflects the presence of the statues of both Aphrodite and Artemis on opposing sides of the stage. Aphrodite’s speech cuts through this silence, and sets of the rivalry and tragedy that will ensue. The momentary silence that would have occurred on stage prior to this and Artemis’ silence initially on stage also both emphasise Aphrodite’s severe and outspoken nature.
The theme of Speech is also effective in drawing the audience’s attention to minor yet insightful characters. Hippolytus’ servant, a seemingly less important character, is
Euripides adopts the themes of speech and silence within Hippolytus in order to enable plot progression, to create dramatic effect and to develop his characterisation of key individuals such as Aphrodite, Phaedra, the Nurse, Theseus and Hippolytus himself. Through exploration of the themes in relation to the characters and chronologically it is clear that the sporadic pattern of speech and silence creates suspense and induces a far more intrinsic and natural response among the audience.
Firstly, in the outset of the play, Aphrodite’s speech is necessary for both plot development and characterisation. Her contempt towards Hippolytus and her dark intentions are at first revealed to the audience, as she proclaims that ‘death’s gates are wide open’ for Hippolytus who she will punish ‘this very day’. Moreover, one could also comment on Aphrodite’s opening statement, "I am named in earth and heaven the Cyprian, Aphrodite." Aphrodite identifies herself as one who 'is named' a god instead of simply 'being' a god. The goddess is presented, in this opening scene, as being greatly aware of her own importance and reliant upon speech in order to command her authority.
In contrast, the theme of silence also plays a subtle role in this opening scene of Hippolytus. A sense of stillness is created by the silence just before the opening of the play before the speech of Aphrodite which reflects the presence of the statues of both Aphrodite and Artemis on opposing sides of the stage. Aphrodite’s speech cuts through this silence, and sets of the rivalry and tragedy that will ensue. The momentary silence that would have occurred on stage prior to this and Artemis’ silence initially on stage also both emphasise Aphrodite’s severe and outspoken nature.
The theme of Speech is also effective in drawing the audience’s attention to minor yet insightful characters. Hippolytus’ servant, a seemingly less important character, is