Betrayal: to deliver or expose to an enemy by treachery or disloyalty
All the violence and terror in Medea is initially caused by Jason's betrayal of his wife Medea. Her sheer rage at his unfaithfulness drives her to commit horrific acts of bloody revenge. When she is betrayed, her love morphs into rage, a rage so strong that she would stop at nothing in order to bring forth the demise of Jason. Ironically, Medea's fury at her husband's betrayal drives her to the use of trickery and manipulation, which are really just another form of betrayal. Medea shows how, when one person betrays another, all may be corrupted.
1. In what ways can Medea's manipulations be seen as betrayal? Give examples of this.
2. Does Jason's betrayal justify Medea's revenge?
3. How does the Chorus and the Nurse react to Medea’s betrayal by Jason? Find three quotes to support your answer
4. Could Medea's murder of her children be interpreted as a betrayal?
Extended:
Jason never betrayed his family or Medea; he only acted in their best interest by marrying the princess. Do you agree?
1. In what ways can Medea's manipulations be seen as betrayal? Give examples of this.
2. Does Jason's betrayal justify Medea's revenge?
3. How does the Chorus and the Nurse react to Medea’s betrayal by Jason? Find three quotes to support your answer
4. Could Medea's murder of her children be interpreted as a betrayal?
Extended:
Jason never betrayed his family or Medea; he only acted in their best interest by marrying the princess. Do you agree?
