Alcestis

Euripides

Read by LibriVox Volunteers

(4.2 stars; 10 reviews)

Alcestis is the earliest surviving play by Euripides. Alcestis, the devoted wife of King Admetus, has agreed to die in his place, and at the beginning of the play she is close to death. In the first scene, Apollo argues with Thanatos (Death), asking to prolong Alcestis' life, but Thanatos refuses. Apollo leaves, but suggests that a man will come to Pherae who will save Alcestis. Euripides' play is perhaps the most unusual Greek drama ever written: a tragedy that is not a tragedy. (Summary by Elizabeth Klett)

Cast
Admetus: Todd
Alcestis/Chorus: Elizabeth Klett
Pheres: Bruce Pirie
Little Boy: Lyn Silva
Manservant: bala
Handmaid: Arielle Lipshaw
Heracles: mb
Apollo: Libby Gohn
Thanatos: engineerdst
Chorus Leader: Caprisha Page
Narrator: David Lawrence

Audio edited by Elizabeth Klett (1 hr 16 min)