The Women of Troy Quotes Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What is Poseidon's view on war in the quote: 'Devastated by the power of the Greek war machine'?

War leads to destruction. (correct)

War unites people.

War is beneficial.

War is unavoidable.

What does Poseidon say about civilization after destruction?

All worship ceases and there's no longer anything left worth a god's consideration.

Who does Hecuba refer to when she talks about the true face of misery?

The poor creature lying there, Hecuba.

What determines the fate of men in battle according to this quote?

Pallas Athene, daughter of Zeus. Signup and view all the answers

What does Hecuba say about the weight of misery?

The weight of your misery, you whom the gods have cursed. Signup and view all the answers

What does Poseidon mean by the destruction one brings upon themselves?

He's asking for trouble. The same destruction. Signup and view all the answers

Hecuba laments that all hope has been ______ from her head.

plundered Signup and view all the answers

What is said about women in the context of blessings and war?

Blessed with plenty is that valley, breeding heroes hardened for war. Signup and view all the answers

According to the quote, what does Hecuba state about the weight of loss?

There is no agony we don't already feel. Signup and view all the answers

What does Cassandra say about the reasons Greeks went to war?

These Greeks, for the sake of women, and one moment of uncontrollable lust. Signup and view all the answers

Cassandra claims it is no shame for a city to die nobly. What qualifies this nobility?

With dignity. Signup and view all the answers

What was the ultimate fate of the women according to Hecuba?

Thrust at spear-point into some Greek's bed as a slave of his lust. Signup and view all the answers

According to Chorus, what has been destroyed?

Shattered and burned the very stones of Apollo's city. Signup and view all the answers

What does Helen describe as a blessing to Greece?

Her marriage to Paris. Signup and view all the answers

What reality does Hecuba highlight about mortals thinking themselves prosperous?

Anyone born mortal and living in this world, who thinks himself prosperous and secure is a fool. Signup and view all the answers

What does Hecuba compare the remaining people of Troy to?

The only remnant of the legendary wealth of Troy. Signup and view all the answers

How does Talthybius depict the fate of Troy?

When we have reduced the whole lot to ashes then we can go celebrate. Signup and view all the answers

What does Hecuba say about tears and suffering?

Let these tears, my tortures, whip me senseless. Signup and view all the answers

What have the gods done according to Hecuba?

They ignored our prayers. Signup and view all the answers

What does Helen claim about the influence of the gods?

The gods have acted. Will you oppose them? Signup and view all the answers

What is the Chorus' statement on the existence of Troy?

There is no place on earth called Troy. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Key Themes and Concepts

War: Described as a devastating force, embodying destruction and the relentless nature of conflict.
- Poseidon reflects on the tragic consequences faced by Troy due to the Greek war machine's power.
- Cassandra notes that even a wise man must confront war with dignity, suggesting that honorable death in battle is preferred over living in shame.
Civilisation: Explores the impact of destruction on society and the divine's view on human failings.
- Poseidon indicates that a fallen city leads to the end of worship and divine interest.
- Andromache criticizes the unimaginable cruelty perpetuated by the Greeks, likening it to barbarism.
Grief: Embodies the personal and collective sorrow experienced by the characters.
- Hecuba laments the loss and suffering, expressing that all agony is already experienced within her people.
- Cassandra highlights how women are caught in the violent aftermath of lust, transforming their fates.
Hope: Reflects on the tension between despair and the potential for survival or redemption.
- Hecuba acknowledges that despite suffering, living beings retain hope, unlike the dead who are devoid of existence.
- Talthybius states the harsh truth of isolation, indicating that no external help will come.
Gods: Represent a powerful yet indifferent force influencing human lives.
- The chorus emphasizes the gods' disdain for Troy, marking a pivotal aspect of the narrative.
- Helen remarks on the actions of gods as significant influences, questioning any opposition to divine will.
Women: Examines the roles and fates of women in the context of war and power dynamics.
- Hecuba and others consider the terrible plight of women and the violence they endure as spoils of war.
- The chorus urges the restoration of Greek women’s reputation through vindictive acts against those who betray.
Rationality versus Emotion: Characters struggle with logical reasoning amid chaotic emotions unleashed by war.
- Hecuba's poignant reflections illustrate the conflict between rational thinking and overwhelming grief.
- Helen's comments about her marriage to Paris emphasize a skewed perspective on power dynamics and social order.

Key Characters and Their Perspectives

Hecuba: The embodiment of grief and despair, representing the pain of loss and shattered civilization.
- Expresses feelings of abandonment by the gods and the futility of prayers.
- Critiques the pride of the Greeks while also embodying the suffering of the Trojan people.
Cassandra: A prophetic figure, known for her insights into the destruction wrought by the Greeks and the futility of war.
- Speaks of shame in death without honor, emphasizing a noble warrior's ideal.
Andromache: Represents the victimization of women, lamenting forced submissions as a consequence of war’s brutality.
- Portrays a deep sense of loss and the price of fidelity in a patriarchal society.
Chorus: Acts as a collective voice representing the community's anguish and the broader impact of war on society.
- Commentaries highlight the lack of a place for the history of Troy, manifesting a sense of loss and nostalgia.

Closing Reflections

War's destruction is not just physical; it obliterates culture, identity, and hope.
The interactions between gods and mortals reveal a complex relationship marked by both intervention and neglect.
The narrative captures the relentless cycle of grief, showcasing how the characters navigate their painful realities while clinging to hope.

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Description

Explore key quotes from 'The Women of Troy' through this flashcard quiz. Each card presents powerful words and definitions, providing insight into the themes and emotions of the play. Test your knowledge and deepen your understanding of this classical work.