The Trachiniae

The Trachiniae or Women of Trachis is an Athenian tragedy by Sophocles.


Women of Trachis is generally considered to be less developed than Sophocles' other works and its dating has been a subject of disagreement among critics and scholars.


The story begins with Deianeira, the wife of Heracles, relating the story of her early life and her plight adjusting to married life. She is now distraught over her husband's neglect of her family. Often involved in some adventure, he rarely visits them. She sends their son Hyllus to find him, as she is concerned over prophecies about Heracles and the land he is currently in. After Hyllus sets off, a messenger arrives with word that Heracles, victorious in his recent battle, is making offerings on Cape Cenaeum and coming home soon to Trachis.