This new translation brings to life the tragedian described by Aristotle as `the most tragic of the poets'. In his tragedies Euripides places his characters under the pressure of intolerable circumstances, revealing them, to use his own words, `as they are'. Supremely responsive to the lot of women, these plays give voice to a howl of protest against the world in which we live.

Hellenists and generalists alike have reason to rejoice ... adds to our understanding and appreciation of a poet-playwright who has never ceased to controversial ... comprises four major plays that are wonderful to have together. Edith Hall's introductory essays ... are eloquent and informative, deftly highlighting each play's chief issues ... several new insights into the texts, and sound explanations of the mythical background and ongoing action ... James Morwood's translations ... are extraordinary. In crisp prose ... these may be the easiest-to-read accurate versions that we are likely to see and, in the inexpensive World Classics edition are quite a bargain. No others ... lend themselves to such a ready reading ... The sheer clarity of the English is a considerable achievement.

`Hellenists and generalists alike have reason to rejoice ... adds to our understanding and appreciation of a poet-playwright who has never ceased to controversial ... comprises four major plays that are wonderful to have together. Edith Hall's introductory essays ... are eloquent and informative, deftly highlighting each play's chief issues ... several new insights into the texts, and sound explanations of the mythical background and ongoing action ... James Morwood's translations ... are extraordinary. In crisp prose ... these may be the easiest-to-read accurate versions that we are likely to see and, in the inexpensive World Classics edition are quite a bargain. No others ... lend themselves to such a ready reading ... The sheer clarity of the English is a considerable achievement.' Victor Castellani, The Classical Outlook/ Fall 1999, Vol 77 no 1 `Morwood's prose translations read smoothly and reflect current, idiomatic English speech ... the impressively ample and up-to-date select bibliography, genuinely helpful explanatory notes for each play, useful discussion of Euripides' thought and style, and the concise, informative background information about the world in which Euripides lived all contribute to the value of this book.' L. Golden, CHOICE