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Citation Information
How to Cite
Manser, Martin H. "Alcestis." Writer's Reference Center. Facts On File, Inc. Web. 17 Apr. 2025. <http://fofweb.infobase.com/wrc/Detail.aspx?iPin=DOA00076>.
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Alcestis

Pronunciation pronunciation key
alsestis

Definition 
Archetype of a woman who sacrifices herself for others. The allusion is to the Greek legend of Alcestis, the wife of King Admetus of Thessaly, who volunteered to die in her husband's place when Apollo agreed to spare his life if he could find someone to take his place. Persephone (or Hercules) subsequently rescued her from Hades and restored her to her husband, as described in the tragedy Alcestis (438 B.C.) by Euripides. The headmistress appeared ready to play Alcestis for the sake of her secretary, but such a monumental sacrifice on her part was not necessary in the end.

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