Analyse the character of Atreus in Thyestes.
Atreus in Seneca’s Thyestes is the oldest son of Pelops and
the rightful ruler of Mycenae. He is the protagonist in what is arguably the
most fiendish revenge play in the history of the theater. He and his brother
Thyestes were supposed to alternate in ruling Mycenae, but neither of them
respected the other's rights. Having won the latest civil war, Atreus has
consolidated his power and is now ready to avenge himself on his brother.
Asserting that, as a king, he is not bound by moral law, Atreus formulates his
plan. He sends his two sons Menelaus and Agamemnon to Thyestes with a friendly message, inviting him to
return to Mycenae and share the throne with Atreus. When Thyestes arrives,
Atreus welcomes him warmly; later, however, Atreus kills his nephews, butchers
them, cooks the meat, and at a great feast serves it to their unsuspecting
father. He concludes by giving Thyestes wine mixed with his children's blood,
then reveals the truth by uncovering a platter holding their heads. Gloating
over his brother's distress, Atreus claims victory. Now, Atreus says, his marriage
bed has been cleansed and he can be sure that his sons are his own. He ends by
scoffing at the idea that the gods will punish him.
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