heroines as portrayed in racine's plays; a review of the three plays of andromach, britannicus, phedra

jean racine, the 18th century french author, gave outstanding roles to his female characters. the presence of women in the literary works of racine was so powerful that some referred to him as the founder of female territory in literature. this text draws a comparison between three heroines featured in three racine plays of andromach, britannicus and phedra which are among the remarkable works of the author. andromach marked the major accomplishment of racine in the world of literature. britannicus was yet another boost of fame for racine since in this play he distanced himself from his usual greek themes and borrowed the subject from ancient rome to demonstrate his mastery in roman history and literature. and finally, phedra, the most noted and the most controversial play written by racine is constantly considered as a finale to the non-religious works in the career of this playwright. andromach, a princess from troy; agrippina, the mother of nero in britannicus; and phedra, a queen from greece are all heroines who have exceptional positions but varied motivations. these heroines are characterized by distinctive differences. at the same time, they share resemblances in their way of facing challenges, their attachments to their past and their influence on the fate of other characters in the story.