... The motif of impulsiveness is displayed in Nereus' decision-making process, as well as the motif of rich versus poor. Anouilh's themes of the unhappy human condition and the desire for human affection are shown through Ismene's uneasiness about her marriage, yet her longing to be loved by Diomedes. Light and music are both utilized to enhance the theatrical experience. Anouilh's dramatic technique of having a balanced cast of characters is attempted through the equal time devoted to both Ismene and Diomedes. The play attempts to divert the people from their worries and consume them in a different world. The lighting is dim. A slow ballad is playing in the background. Voices are heard as the Chorus walks onto stage left. There is a throne in the back center of the stage, in which we see Ismene sitting alone, pondering her role as Queen of Thebes. To her left there is ...

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