This course explores Aeschylus and his Oresteia trilogy of plays in depth, examining its themes, dramatic techniques, and historical context, while also introducing SPACE students to the origins and performance practices of Ancient Greek tragedy.

This eight-session course offers an engaging exploration of Aeschylus’ Oresteia—the groundbreaking trilogy that reshaped Ancient Greek tragedy. Through dynamic discussions, close readings, and visual aids, we’ll unpack Aeschylus' plays (Agamemnon, The Libation Bearers, and The Eumenides) examining their brutal conflicts, moral dilemmas, and ultimate vision of justice. Along the way, we’ll investigate Greek tragedy’s origins, Aeschylus’ revolutionary innovations, and how these ancient dramas still resonate today. No prior knowledge or homework required—just a willingness to debate fate, fury, and the first courtroom drama in Western literature!

The module will follow an 8-session structure as shown below:

Outline	8-Session Structure
Week 1	Session 1: The Origins of Greek Tragedy
	Session 2: Performance and Dramatic Techniques in Greek Tragedy
Week 2	Session 3: Aeschylus, The Father of Tragedy
	Session 4: Agamemnon – Blood, Betrayal, and the House of Atreus
Week 3	Session 5: The Libation Bearers – The Cycle of Revenge
	Session 6: The Eumenides – Blood Feuds to Civic Justice
Week 4	Session 7: The Oresteia as a Unified Trilogy
	Session 8: Greek Tragedy’s Influence and Modern Adaptations