Andromaque

Andromaque is a classical tragedy by Jean Racine, first performed in 1667. Set in Epirus after the Trojan War, the play explores the destructive nature of unrequited love among four characters. King Pyrrhus is in love with his captive, the Trojan widow Andromache, who is loved by the Greek princess Hermione. Hermione, in turn, is loved by Orestes.

The play is characterized by its focus on intense emotional conflicts and the characters' self-absorption, leading to a tragic conclusion involving murder, suicide, and madness. Racine's innovative use of offstage events to build dramatic tension and his powerful, understated language are hallmarks of his style. Andromaque marked a significant success for Racine, establishing his reputation as a master of French classical tragedy.12