摘要：This paper aims at delving into the play Medea in the light of Nietzsche’s views on tragedy expressed in his book The Birth of Tragedy . First, Nietzsche’s conception of Apollonian-Dionysiac duality will be explained, followed by a review of how he regards Eurpides, and then, the pro and con views on Euripidean tragedy will be examined. Finally the play Medea will be analyzed to designate how and in what sense it departures from, or approaches either of the Apollonian or Dionysian spirits. In what ways, the character of a mother who commits infanticide can be interpreted as rational or insane? To what extent is Medea in line with Nietzsche’s assertion that Euripides is the advocate of rationality, departing from the Dionysian spirit of tragedy?
