An analysis of the Bacchae on the basis of Aristotle's Poelies revealsthat Euripides' treatment of Pentheus' fate has all it takes to arouse pityand fear. The king's μεταβασιζ εξ ευτυχιαζ ειζ δυστυχιαν begins witha peripety (v. 810) and ends upon a pathos-scene (vv. 1114-36). Theemotional effect of the latter is enhanced by the surrounding songs (vv.977-90; 1153-59) and the εναργεια of the messenger's description.Ultimately, however, the impact of Pentheus' downfall will depend onour evaluation of his ηθοζ and διανοια. Whoever is blind to the circumstancesof the young man's αμαρτια as well as to the negative evolutionin Dionysus' behaviour, will not be moved. But even (s)he will fee] pityand fear in the exode, as we witness through a brilliant αναγνωρισιζ(vv . 1264-96) how Pentheus' death brings undeserved misfortune onAgave.
