001 - Part I

Seven Against Thebes is the thrilling third play in Aeschyluss Oedipus-themed trilogy, produced in 467 BC and often referred to as the Oedipodea. This dramatic tale unfolds the fierce battle between an Argive army, led by Polynices, and the forces of Thebes under the command of Eteocles. The trilogy secured first prize at the City Dionysia, although its earlier plays, Laius and Oedipus, along with the satyr play Sphinx, have unfortunately been lost to time. After the shocking revelation that Oedipus has married his own mother and had children with her, he blinds himself and curses his sons to claim their inheritance through bloodshed. Eteocles and Polynices initially agree to share the throne, ruling Thebes in alternating years. However, when Eteocles refuses to relinquish power after his term, Polynices gathers an army of Argives—the titular Seven—to reclaim his birthright. The plays rich dialogues between the citizens of Thebes and their king Eteocles explore the imminent threat posed by the encroaching army.