2025/12/28 by Vyridis, Mavroeides-Andreas
paper · doi:10.13136/tx9z5j94
This article explores the function of the terms ξένος and δοῦλος in Euripides’ Ion, a play not so easy to interpret, as, among other things, the poet deliberately presents both the mortal heroes and the god Apollo as controversial. Those terms are examined in relation to their context, as well as to central themes of the plot. One of these themes is the myth of autochthony, which played a decisive role in Ion and in the formation of the Athenian patriotic ideology. Euripides, by using ironically the terms ξένος and δοῦλος, while the action is placed in front of the Delphian temple, seems to mock this Athenian ideal of autochthony. Our subject will also be examined in relation to other Euripides’ plays, as well as the poetic and mythological tradition. KEYWORDS: Apollo; Delphi; Ion; autochthony; stranger; slave; ironic