Seneca: Hercules Furens (Companions to Greek and Roman Tragedy)

Hercules is the best-known character from classical mythology. Seneca's play Hercules Furens presents the hero at a moment of triumph turned to tragedy. Hercules returns from his final labor, his journey to the Underworld, and then slaughters his family in an episode of madness. This play exerted great influence on Shakespeare and other Renaissance tragedians, and also inspired contemporary adaptations in film, TV, and comics. Aimed at undergraduates and non-specialists, this companion introduces the play's action, historical context and literary tradition, critical reception, adaptation, and performance tradition. Contents: Introducing Hercules furens -- Major themes in Hercules furens -- Monster-slayer, moral exemplar, and madman: Hercules' ancient roles -- Hercules furens and Seneca's career -- Performance and reception. Cover Half-title Title Copyright Contents List of Illustrations Acknowledgments Preface 1. Introducing Hercules Furens 2. Major Themes in Hercules Furens 3. Monster-slayer, Moral Exemplar, and Madman: Hercules’ Ancient Roles 4. Hercules Furens and Seneca’s Career 5. Performance and Reception Notes Further Reading Bibliography Chronology Glossary of Greek and Latin Terms Index