Women of Trachis

At the beginning of the play, Deianeira states that humans “never know for sure whether your life / Is good or bad until it ends in death” (96). Discuss the concept of a good death. Is Heracles’ death a good death or not?

How does weaving imagery function in the play? Include at least three examples in your discussion.

Recalling Heracles and Achelous’ violent competition to marry her, Deianeira says that his feared “my beauty would someday be a source of pain” (97). Discuss the relationship between beauty (and/or joy) and pain in the play. Draw on at least three examples from the text in your discussion.