Jean Racine's play, Thebaid, or The Brothers at War, is a compelling exploration of the destructive power of familial conflict. Set against the backdrop of ancient Thebes, the story follows the power struggle between two brothers, Eteocles and Polynices, as they vie for control of the city.

Racine expertly captures the intense emotions and complex dynamics at play within the royal family, depicting the brothers' descent into jealousy, betrayal, and ultimately, tragedy. The dialogue is sharp and evocative, drawing the reader into the characters' inner turmoil and moral dilemmas.

The play is a timeless reminder of the consequences of unchecked ambition and pride, as well as the devastating effects of unresolved conflicts within a family. Racine's masterful storytelling and nuanced character development make Thebaid a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read.

Book Description:
"The reign of Louis XIV. in France, like the age of Pericles at ancient Athens, was remarkable for literary excellence no less than for military achievements. Like Euripides, Racine confined himself almost exclusively to tragedy.... It was under Molière's friendly auspices that Racine's first published play, "La Thébaïde," was put upon the stage ... at the Palais Royale, Molière's own theater." The story, very much the opposite of a Moliere farce, describes the battle between the brothers Eteocles and Polynices, and being a proper tragedy does not end well for anyone. - Summary by Translator and ToddHW Cast list: Eteocles, King of Thebes: ToddHW Polynices, brother of Eteocles: alanmapstone Jocasta, mother of those two princes, and of Antigone: Sonia Antigone, sister of Eteocles and Polynices: Lydia Creon, their uncle: Adrian Stephens Hemon, son of Creon, lover of Antigone: Tomas Peter Olympia, confidential friend of Jocasta: Lisanne Lavoie Attalus, confidential friend of Creon: Adam Bielka A Soldier of the Army of Polynices: Nemo Stage Directions: MichaelMaggs Editing: ToddHW