In the thesis I focused on Aeschylus', Sophocles' and Euripides' characterization of Electra. Although matricide, according to tradition, must be executed by Orestes, his sister Electra is present in all three tragedies. In Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides the recognition (anagnórisis) first occurs between brother and sister, which allows the continuation of the story and thus matricide. Electra's presence in all three tragedies indicates that she plays a decisive role in the Orestes revenge. In the first part of thesis I focused on the myth of Atreidai, central part is dedicated to the characterization of three Electra's. Electra appears in Aeschylus' Oresteia only in the central part, and although hers role is marginal and does not herself wish to take part in the murder, her character is nevertheless important. Sister's confession encourages torn Orestes to voluntarily decide to commit matricide. Sophocles places Electra in the center of the play since all the action is concentrated around her. Electra had been changed by years of hatred - from kindhearted, noble person she became embittered, vengeful creature. She can't cope with her hatred and she is aware of that. Sophocles' Orestes does not need encouragement but Electra's emotional and physical state spurs his intentions even more. In Euripides, on the other hand, Orestes doubts about the Apollo's command and would be unlikely to decide for matricide without Electra's incentive. Euripides' Electra hates her mother for a completely personal reasons; she resents her own poor situation, particularly being deprived of her femininity. Her resentments are so deep that she forces her brother to commit matricide. Moreover, when Orestes is reluctant Electra lunges his hand and so she becomes a participant in the murder.
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