Source edition
Euripides. Euripidis Fabulae, Vol. II. Murray, Gilbert, editor. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1913. (Reprinted 1921-1962)
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA 4.0
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This ancient Greek tragedy depicts the brutal fate and the struggle for survival faced by the legendary hero Heracles. Set in Thebes, the story begins in Heracles' absence, as the usurper Lycus threatens to execute his elderly father Amphitryon, his wife Megara, and his children. Just as they prepare for death, Heracles miraculously returns from the underworld and slays the tyrant, saving his family. However, their joy is short-lived; driven mad by the goddess Lyssa under Hera's command, Heracles loses his mind and slaughters his own wife and children. Upon regaining his senses and discovering the horrific truth, he is plunged into despair and contemplates suicide. Ultimately, his loyal friend Theseus persuades him to endure his tragic destiny and live on, leading him to Athens to start anew.