“Atreus: Who would reject the flood of fortune’s gifts? Thyestes: Anyone who has experienced how easily they flow back.”
—SENECA, THYESTES, 536
Thyestes is a classic Seneca revenge play which tells the story of Atreus’ attempt to lure his hated brother Thyestes into a cruel trap by offering him tempting and generous gifts. The quote alluded to in the text is a reference to General William T. Sherman’s famous rejection of offers to run for United States President. The play serves as a reminder that our attraction towards what is new and shiny can lead us into serious trouble, as Thyestes is ultimately tempted and persuaded to accept the gifts which turn out to be a ruse that leads to devastating tragedy.
