Bacchae (The Bacchae)

The Bacchae, an ancient Greek tragedy by Euripides, tells the story of King Pentheus of Thebes resisting the god Dionysus, who is celebrating his wild, joyful festival. As a punishment for denying Dionysus, the god’s followers, the Bacchae, including women and maenads, become frenzied and uncontrollable, engaging in chaotic, often violent acts. The play explores themes of obedience, divine power, and the dangers of hubris—excessive pride or disrespect towards the gods—highlighting how denying or opposing divine forces can lead to chaos and tragedy.