Rhadamistus and Zenobia: Analysis of Major Characters
The story of Rhadamistus and Zenobia revolves around themes of power, betrayal, and love in a historical context. Rhadamistus, the king of Armenia and a complex character shaped by his upbringing, initially embraces a relationship with Zenobia, the daughter of Mithridates. However, his violent actions lead to tragedy when he throws Zenobia into a river in a fit of rage after murdering his foster father, Mithridates. Zenobia survives this ordeal, becoming entangled in a web of political and personal conflicts, including a forced marriage to the ruthless Pharasmanes, Rhadamistus’ father, who ultimately grapples with his own feelings of remorse. The character of Arsames, another son of Pharasmanes, adds a layer of romantic tension as he secretly loves Zenobia. The narrative is rich with emotional depth, illustrating the consequences of jealousy and ambition on familial relationships. Overall, the dynamics between these characters highlight the tragic interplay of love and power, drawing readers into the complexities of their intertwined fates.
Rhadamistus and Zenobia: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Prosper Jolyot de Crébillon
First published: Rhadmiste et Zénobie, 1711 (English translation, 1768)
Genre: Play
Locale: Artanissa, the capital of Iberia
Plot: Tragedy
Time: c. 60 c.e.
Rhadamistus (rah-dah-MIHS-tuhs), the king of Armenia, the son of Pharasmanes but reared by Mithridates as his own child. When Mithridates turns against him, Rhadamistus attacks his foster father's kingdom, murders him, and, in a rage, throws his own bride Zenobia into a river, from which she is rescued without his knowledge. Later, as Roman envoy at the court of Pharasmanes, he learns that Zenobia is alive. He begs for and receives her forgiveness and is mortally wounded as he attempts to flee with her.
Zenobia (zee-NOH-bee-ah), also called Ismenia, Mithridates' daughter and the wife of Rhadamistus. To protect her father from Rhadamistus, she marries him, only to be thrown by her husband into a river and left for dead. Rescued, she becomes a prisoner of Pharasmanes, who desires to marry her. She, in turn, is in love with Arsames, to whom Pharasmanes finally relinquishes her in his remorse over his killing of his son Rhadamistus.
Pharasmanes, Rhadamistus' father. His jealousy and lust for power lead him into conflict with his son Rhadamistus, whom he kills. In remorse, he sacrifices his throne and the widowed Zenobia to Arsames.
Arsames, another of Pharasmanes' sons, in love with Zenobia.
Mithridates (mihth-rih-DAY-tees), Zenobia's father and Rhadamistus' foster father.
Phenice, Zenobia's confidante.
Hiero, Rhadamistus' companion.
Hydaspes, Pharasmanes' confidant.
Mithranes, the captain of Pharasmanes' guard.