In five pages this essay compares and contrasts these two plays. There are no other sources listed.
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humanistic concerns of ancient Greece, just as Henrik Ibsens A Dolls House reflects the perspective of late nineteenth century society in Western Europe. In each case, the playwrights endeavor to
reflect their respective societies realistically, while shedding light on a particular aspect of their respective cultures. In each case, these authors focus on the nature of women. In each of
these societies, women held a subservient position to that of men. These playwrights take a humanist stance that argues against this cultural position and presents women as the emotional and
intellectual equals of men. Iphigenia at Aulis is set just prior to the Trojan War. A massive Greek army is assembled at Aulis, in preparation for sailing to Troy,
but cannot do so because of weather conditions, specifically the lack of a favorable wind. Artemis, the goddess of the region, has been angered and has told Agamemnon, via Calchas
who is an oracle, that she will not provide a favorable wind until Agamemnon has atoned for displeasing her by sacrificing his only daughter, Iphigenia. As the play opens, Agamemnon
is brooding over his actions. He has summoned his wife Clytemnestra and daughter on the pretense that Iphigenia is to wed Achilles. However, after doing this, he doubts his actions,
and changes his mind. He will not sacrifice his only daughter because of Menelaus unfaithful wife. (The impetus behind the Trojan War was that Paris, a Trojan, stole Helen, the
wife of Menelaus.) From the beginning of the play, Euripides emphasizes what ancient Greeks must have considered to be a realistic view of life. Agamemnons attendant tells him, "O
Agamemnon, but thou needs/ experience joy and sorrow alike, mortal as thou art" (Euripides). Likewise, Agamemnon comments, "None of mortals is prosperous or happy to the last, for none was