Which author wrote adaptations of Greek tragedies during the French Neoclassical period?

Prepare for the Praxis Literary Texts and Authors Exam using flashcards and multiple-choice questions, with hints and explanations. Ace your test!

The correct answer, Jean Racine, is significant within the context of the French Neoclassical period for his adaptations of Greek tragedies. Racine is known for his mastery of classical themes and his ability to adapt Greek forms, especially from playwrights like Euripides and Sophocles, into the French theatrical context. His works, such as "Phèdre" and "Andromaque," showcase his talent for emotional depth, dramatic intensity, and adherence to the unities of time, place, and action, which were central tenets of Neoclassical dramaturgy.

Racine's adaptations maintain the original tragedies' themes while reshaping characters and dialogue to fit the cultural and linguistic nuances of 17th-century France. This skillful transformation not only honors the ancient texts but also elevates them to meet the artistic standards of his own time, allowing them to resonate with contemporary audiences.

The other authors mentioned do not align with this particular focus on Greek tragedy or the Neoclassical movement in France. Thomas Pynchon is known for his postmodern works; Sylvia Plath gained recognition for her poetry and novels centered on modern themes; and Edgar Allan Poe is remembered for his contributions to Gothic literature and poetry rather than Greek adaptations. Therefore

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