The Wasps

ebook Greek Comedy

By Aristophanes

cover image of The Wasps

Sign up to save your library

With an OverDrive account, you can save your favorite libraries for at-a-glance information about availability. Find out more about OverDrive accounts.

   Not today

Find this title in Libby, the library reading app by OverDrive.

Download Libby on the App Store Download Libby on Google Play

Search for a digital library with this title

Title found at these libraries:

Library Name Distance
Loading...

In The Wasps, the ancient Greek playwright Aristophanes delivers a sharp and humorous critique of Athenian society, focusing on the jury system and the older generation's obsession with power. The play centers on Philocleon ("Cleon-lover"), an elderly man addicted to serving as a juror—and thus indirectly supporting the corrupt politician Cleon—whom his son Bdelycleon tries to reform and keep at home. Much of the comedy arises from the absurd clash between father and son, including a farcical courtroom trial of a dog accused of theft. Through satire, slapstick, and biting social commentary, Aristophanes mocks the judicial system's susceptibility to abuse, the gullibility of jurors, and the challenges of generational conflict. Combining humor with incisive political criticism, The Wasps remains a brilliant reflection on justice, civic duty, and the folly of blind loyalty.

The Wasps