Compare and Contrast Essay Sample: Thyestes by Seneca vs. Titus Andronicus by Shakspeare

When writing you’re bound to write a work similar to one which has already been created simply by chance and the finiteness of original ideas caused by the sheer number of media in circulation already. This is something which is seen within the plays Thyestes by Seneca, and Titus Andronicus by Shakspeare, two plays that explore dark themes fueled by the need for revenge and greed. Two commonly used themes, but each with a unique and exceedingly taboo twist of cannibalism included, one which drives the shock factor and either disgusts or helps to intrigue the audience. Something both do well along with various other things, which work to drive the story along in a way that leaves the watcher guessing how it’s all going to end. As to which tells this story better it’s important to look at a couple of key factors including how well the plot is written, what themes are used, and overall storytelling.

When looking at the plot of the two it’s important to see the inherent differences between these similar works. “Titus Andronicus” follows the story of Titus Andronicus a Roman general who after ten years of war returns home with four prisoners who are scornful and set on revenge against him, whilst “Thyestes” tells of two warring brothers who each are vying for the throne and who will do absolutely anything to attain what they desire. Following these plots, a great number of taboo subjects are explored especially within Titus Andronicus. For example in Titus Andronicus Lavinia who is Titus’s only daughter is raped and mutilated, having her hands and tongue cut off so she cannot name her attackers, something that’s difficult to read and even harder to watch. Whilst in the less provocative Thyestes the initial conflict is created by Thyestes has seduced Aerope who is Thyestes wife into sleeping with him which brings the legitimacy of his children into question which in turn casts doubt upon the throne's bloodline. While neither of these actions is something to be proud of it’s apparent which play is going to be less so for enjoyment and will rather be a contest of “what’s the most grotesque action that can be performed.” After realizing this one can begin to look at the plot of each as a whole now that the tone has been set and it’s apparent which direction these stories are headed. 

First looking at Thyestes and the effects of what his brother's betrayal caused, Atreus is absolutely maddened by Thyestes actions and vows to take revenge. He takes inspiration from his family history and cooks up a scheme to murder his brothers’ children and have them served to their father as a meal. As spoken by Atreus “Their rage is what now fills my soul, as I will fill Thyestes’ belly full. Let the father tear this flesh from his sons’ bodies and let him drink the blood of his blood and gnaw the bones of his bones.” (Seneca 1.1.276-280) shows how enraged Atreus truly is.