While other playwrights glorified heroes, Euripides exposed their psychological damage with theatrical tough love. This avant-garde tragedian scandalised fifth-century BCE Athens by portraying mythic figures as deeply flawed individuals rather than idealised champions.

He gave voice to society’s marginalised, creating complex roles for women, slaves, and foreigners that challenged audience prejudices. Though awarded only four or five first prizes during his lifetime (compared to Sophocles’ twenty-four), Euripides had the last laugh. His plays survived in greater numbers than any other ancient tragedian, influencing everything from opera to modern psychology.

Legend says he spent his later years writing in seclusion on Salamis, possibly in a cave. Next time you can’t find a coffee shop with good WiFi, maybe take a leaf out of Euripides’ book.