Chart and Worksheet for Euripides' Heracles by Robin Mitchell-Boyask, Temple University

Prologue	Scene 1	Scene 2	Scene 3	Scene 4	Scene 5
Amphitryon explains Heracles' paternity, his absence, and Aphitryon's own presence in Thebes. Political crisis of Lycus' invasion. Megara reports boys' anxiety. They are all suppliants at the altar of Zeus	Lycus threatens the family and argues with Amphitryon about Heracles and his weaponry. Megara rebukes Lycus and offers herself to death. They prepare for the death of the whole family. Amphitryon denounces Zeus	Megara and children emerge with Amphitryon. Heracles returns, and enters palace to prepare the ambush for Lycus	Amphitryon lures Lycus inside. His death cries are heard	Iris and Lyssa appear above skene to announce the punishment of Heracles; they leave. Murders heard. Messenger announces murders and intervention of Athena	kommos between Amphitryon and chorus. Fear about Heracles as he awakens. He considers suicide. Theseus arrives and convinces him to live and return with him to Athens.
Parodos	Stasimon 1	Stasimon 2	Stasimon 3	Stasimon 4	Stasimon 5
O poor family of Heracles!	Rememberance of Heracles' heroic exploits. Why isn't he here to save his family?	May I never be rich! Victory song for Heracles, the child of Zeus	Let us dance in victory. The gods do protect the good and just	Lament for children; comparison to other murders of children	Grief over departure of Heracles.

Parts played by first actor:
Parts played by second actor:
Parts played by third actor:

Important gestures

Study Questions:

1. Does this Heracles resemble the same hero in other dramas?
2. Why do the gods punish Heracles
3. Why is Heracles' choice of weaponry important?
4. Compare Heracles' rejection of suicide to Aias' acceptance of it
5. Note references to paternity of Heracles throughout text and how designation of "true" father shifts