Phèdre
Phèdre is a tragedy by Jean Racine that was first published in 1677.
The play narrates the love conceived by Phaedra, wife of Theseus, for Hippolytus, son of Theseus and an Amazon, according to classical Greek mythology. The play is composed of 1,654 alexandrine verses.
This tragedy is mainly inspired by the myth of Phaedra from Euripides' tragedy, although Racine also took some contributions made to the myth by Seneca and Garnier.
Phèdre is the last secular tragedy written by Racine. After its publication, he devoted himself to the work of historian of the court of King Louis XIV and to religion.
This digital edition of the play Phèdre by Jean Racine is based on the English translation by Robert Bruce Boswell.
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Public domain (US)·No sign-up·DRM-free·Real text, not scans
Copyright note. Phèdre by Jean Racine is believed to be in the public domain in the United States only. It may still be copyrighted in other countries. If you are not in the United States, please check your local laws to ensure this eBook is in the public domain in your country before downloading Phèdre in PDF or EPUB.
- Pages
- 69
- Reading time
- 1 hour 10 minutes
- Pace
- Intermediate
- First published
- 1676
- Language
- French
- Downloads
- 2,340
350 years later, still timely
Why Read Phèdre in 2026?
Desire, shame, and reputation in crystalline verse. Racine compresses catastrophe into music.
Today's connection
Power dynamics, consent, and rumor still decide futures. This play teaches how language can both bind and free.
Classical voltage
Formal, fiercely alive.
Duty vs longing
Honor meets hunger.
Shadow of rumor
Words make weather.
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About the author
Jean Racine
Classical tragedy of passion under law; clear structure with fierce feeling.
