Inconsistent Sympathy - Medea

When observing relationships, the onlooker’s sympathies can change from one person to another in a matter of seconds. Situations change, motives which can be hidden are revealed, and time affects outcomes. Other people can influence certain opinions, therefore making it difficult to consistently feel for only one side of the argument. Throughout Medea, the audience’s sympathies are shifted between Medea and Jason, with Jason ultimately emerging as the character with which most of …

…these aspects explain why Jason ultimately became the more sympathetic character. In conclusion, the reader’s compassion for Medea and Jason vacillate throughout the play, with Jason coming forth as the more favorable character. Although Medea was deeply agonized and troubled because of Jason’s actions, she turned to vengance and took her anger out on innocent victims. Considering the extreme outcomes of Medea’s angry attacks, the audience is moved to sympathize with Jason.