Aeschylus and the Chorus

Throughout both Agamemnon and The Libation Bearers the chorus plays a very important role, and in both plays, a very non-traditional role. In the majority of plays, the chorus is an omniscient group, often comprised of members of the public, whose main role is to explain to the audience what they are supposed to feel and think about the actions taking place within the play. Also, the chorus is usually removed from the play, almost as if they are also watching and commentating on the action that is taking place, however in Aeschylus's plays the chorus is not only directly involved in the play, but they are more of a direct character than a traditional chorus. Often, the chorus has little to no impact on the play or interaction with characters, however in Agamemnon and The Libation Bearers the chorus not only has direct interaction with characters, but in The Libation Bearers the chorus is directly responsible for the continuation of the plot and eventual actions of the main characters, in this case Orestes and Electra. Also, the choice of chorus members is also non-traditional in The Libation Bearers, being made up of house slaves, in contrast to the more traditional chorus members, high ranking male citizens of Argos, in Agamemnon. This non-traditional chorus development allows for a secondary force, beyond the main characters, to help advance the plot, in addition to the normal role of the chorus. I think this development is extremely interesting and innovative and makes the plays a very interesting commentary on justice through the eyes of different groups and classes of those in an ancient Greek society.