Lysistrata

Name: Lysistrata
Author: Aristophanes

By Aristophanes

Open in WeRead

Explore more books like this:

Classics of Literature History - Ancient Humour Plays/Films/Dramas

About This Book

A resourceful woman organizes women from across the city to withhold sexual relations and seize a political stronghold, aiming to compel men to end a prolonged war. Their campaign provokes comic confrontations, bungled assaults, and frantic negotiations as the sexes attempt to outmaneuver one another, with choruses and farcical set-pieces interspersing debate and slapstick. The play mixes explicit erotic humor with pointed satire of civic leadership, gender expectations, and the folly of sustained conflict, ultimately framing sexual politics as both leverage and a catalyst for public reconciliation.

About the Author

Aristophanes

Aristophanes was an ancient Greek playwright known for his sharp wit and satirical commentary on Athenian society and politics. Active during the 5th century BCE, he is often regarded as the father of comedy, contributing significantly to the genre with his innovative use of humor and social critique. His works, such as "Lysistrata," which humorously explores themes of war and gender, and "The Clouds," a critique of contemporary philosophy, showcase his ability to blend entertainment with profound commentary. Aristophanes' plays remain influential, reflecting the complexities of human nature and the socio-political landscape of his time.