Medea

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What suspicions did Creon have against Medea?

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What suspicions did Creon have against Medea? [NU: 2022] 

In “Medea” (431 BCE), Euripides (c. 480–406 BCE)  presents King Creon as a wise but fearful ruler. He suspects Medea of planning evil. His fear comes from her sharp mind and cruel anger. His suspicions led to her exile and finally to his tragic death.

Fear of Medea’s Anger: Creon fears Medea’s uncontrolled anger. She is furious at Jason’s second marriage. Her threats against the royal family reach Creon. He believes Medea may harm Glauce, his daughter. He says her mind is 

“clever and skilled in many evils.” 

His fear is not without reason. Medea’s rage is clear from her words and cries. Creon’s fear shows his awareness of her dangerous nature. Euripides uses this fear to prepare the audience for the tragic events that follow.

Knowledge of Medea’s P

ast: Creon knows Medea’s dark past. He remembers how she helped Jason steal the Golden Fleece. She betrayed her father and killed her brother. These acts lead Creon to perceive her as cruel and heartless. He fears that she will again use her power for evil. Medea’s history gives him enough reason to distrust her. His decision to exile her comes from his knowledge of her crimes. His suspicion is based on truth, not on false belief.

Fear of Magic and Tricks: Creon fears Medea’s magic powers. He knows she has the skill to harm through spells and poisons. He believes she can destroy even from far away. Medea herself says, 

“I’m … dangerous to enemies, but well disposed to friends.” 

This line proves Creon’s fear correct. He knows she is clever, proud, and cruel when betrayed. His fear of her wisdom and revenge makes him act quickly and send her away from Corinth.

Thus, Creon’s suspicions against Medea come from fear, truth, and experience. He knows her anger and her magical power. Euripides shows that his fear is wise, though it cannot save him from death.

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Euripides
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