Philoctetes, written by Sophocles and translated by Robert W. Corrigan, is a timeless tragedy that explores the themes of betrayal, forgiveness, and redemption. The play tells the story of Philoctetes, a Greek warrior who was abandoned on a deserted island by his fellow soldiers after being bitten by a snake.

The translation by Corrigan captures the emotional depth and intensity of the original Greek text, bringing to life the complex relationships between the characters. Philoctetes is a compelling protagonist, torn between his desire for revenge and his need for forgiveness. The supporting characters, such as Odysseus and Neoptolemus, add layers of complexity to the story, highlighting the moral dilemmas faced by each character.

The language in Corrigan's translation is both poetic and accessible, making the play engaging and compelling for modern readers. The themes explored in Philoctetes resonate with contemporary audiences, as they continue to grapple with issues of loyalty, integrity, and the nature of forgiveness.

Overall, Philoctetes is a powerful and thought-provoking play that offers a poignant exploration of human nature and the complexities of moral decision-making. Sophocles' timeless story, brought to life by Corrigan's skillful translation, is a must-read for anyone interested in classical drama and the enduring power of Greek tragedy.

Book Description:
Philoctetes is a play by Sophocles (Aeschylus and Euripides also each wrote a Philoctetes but theirs have not survived). The play was written during the Peloponnesian War. It is one of the seven tragedies of Sophocles to have survived the ravages of time in its complete form. It was first performed at the Festival of Dionysus in 409 BC, where it won first prize. The story takes place during the Trojan War (after the majority of the events of the Iliad, and before the Trojan Horse). It describes the attempt by Neoptolemus and Odysseus to bring the disabled Philoctetes, the master archer, with them to Troy.