The play Medea, by Euripides, incorporates many techniques to increase the forceful persona of the protagonist, Medea. She has an overpowering presence, which is shown through the use of imagery, dramatic suspense, and the chorus.
Medea is frequently shown with images of violence and rage. “She’s wild. Hate’s in her blood. /She feeds her rage…Stormclouds of anger.” (Warner, ?) These images suggest hatred and anger. They are powerful emotions and portray a strong illustration of Medea’s personality. Like nature, Medea is perceived as commanding and also unpredictable; this creates uncertainty as to what she will do next and so it intrigues the audience. Comparisons between Medea and wild animals are to portray her as wild and untamed, such as: “Bullglares, lions claws” and “you hellhound, you tigress.” (page #) These comments draw attention to Medea’s animalistic side, increasing her onstage presence and compelling persona. Medea’s two-fold personality is discovered through imagery of harshness. She is both emotional and manipulative, depending on which helps her cause. “Cold as stone, cold eyes,” in 5th Century B.C. the eyes were considered of great importance, reflections of the soul. Therefore, to have cold eyes is the same as having a cold soul (page #). This notion is confronting to the audience and adds to Medea’s onstage presence.
Dramatic irony is a technique, very important to Medea’s forceful character. While Jason is oblivious to Medea’s true intentions, the audience is aware of what she plans to do. Medea appears to be the leader of a “feminist movement” with the chorus and audience as followers. Therefore, that places her on a pedestal, which is higher than a normal human being. Dramatic suspense is used throughout the play to draw interest to Medea’s persona. Her true power and presence is revealed through her will to complete her revenge with the death of her children. She suffered through weak emotions but her will and strength came through, increasing Medea’s character dramatically.
The use of the chorus assists in the construction of Medea’s compelling persona. Throughout the play (and right up to the very end), they support, scheme with her, and urge her on. Traditionally, the chorus is the voice of the general population, hence portraying the idea that most of Corinth supports her actions and damns those of Jason. “We’ll do it. You’re right. To punish him.” (page #) In this statement, the chorus is agreeing with Medea and they go as far as to promise not to tell of her plan. The chorus’ approval makes Medea appear stronger and more “right” in her actions. The chorus also idolizes Medea to a certain extent. After her passionate rant on the tyranny of men, the chorus figure that women are demoralized and need to stand up for their rights. “Now the water shall flow uphill, /Men should recognize our power,” the chorus, excited by Medea’s speech, agree and even advocate “feminism”. Medea’s role is heightened by the chorus’s admiration toward her. She is seen to be able to command people, creating a sense of power. The Nurse is also important in portraying Medea’s overpowering presence. She mourns the wrongs against Medea on Jason’s behalf, forcing the audience to sympathize and make a connection between protagonist and viewers. This relationship makes Medea a compelling character.
The play Medea, by Euripides, many dramatic techniques such as imagery, off stage action and dramatic suspense are utilized in the construction of Medea as a compelling persona and an overpowering presence.

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