I always come back to the Greeks…it’s love every time

I might fill in more stuff later but:

Hecuba - 4 Stars
Andromache - 4 Stars
The Trojan Women - 3 Stars
Ion - 3 Stars

Despite the couple of four stars above, I didn't really think anything in this volume was indispensable - so, unless you want to read everything, don't feel too bad giving this volume a pass.

Hecuba was interesting and inspiring.
Andromache was a touch into the world of a similar woman in a different situation.
The Trojan Women was a summary play of all that had occurred, from the women's enslavery to the generalised plot points of what happened in both Hecuba and Andromache.
Ion was a completely separate story and was difficult to read du to this mental switch.

I think they were definitely ordered from best to worst and would certainly return to Hecuba again.

Encounters/Core

I only read Trojan Women and rated it thus.

Fantastic plays, loved all of them-- I just wouldn't necessarily recommend these translations for semi-novice readers such as myself.

Hecuba (tr. Arrowsmith)
Andromache (tr. Nims)
The Trojan Women (tr. Lattimore)
Ion (tr. Willetts)

Really enjoyed Ion. I would say I enjoyed Hecuba but that seems mean considering miss queen was going thru it. Also it’s crazy as a former Percy Jackson enjoyer the connections u make like oh damn Rick really pulled that aspect straight from mythology. Also thankful it wrapped up some loose ends from the Iliad (fuck neoptolemus or however u spell his name)

What can I say? All of the well-known Greek playwrights are important reading, both for their historical significance as well as the fact that they're excellent plays. They haven't remained famous for 2,400 years because they're not worthy of it.

I especially liked "The Trojan Women" and consider it a classic.

I'm beginning to think that women in Greek drama are either wailing for their misfortune or taking murderous revenge. I much prefer the latter. Hecuba is definitely the best play here, and goes through both of the above stages to poignant effect after all of her 19 children are killed. Chronologically Hecuba should come after Andromache and The Trojan Women - I would have much preferred this order not only for the plot, but so there was something to look forward to. Andromache does at least keep you guessing, but the plot is very mixed up, while The Trojan Women is just filler really. I didn't particularly enjoy Ion either, but perhaps I'm Greeked out.

Listened 2016