... In this context, it is questionable whether Œnone alone can take the blame for the tragic outcome of the play. Although Œnone's schemes clearly contribute directly to the dénouement of the drama, it could be argued that this is just fate taking its course. The actions of the other main characters, notably Thésée, Hippolyte and Phèdre, also contribute to the tragic ending. Phèdre blames Œnone for the tragic outcome in Act 4.6 and in the final scene. It must be investigated whether this condemnation and shifting of responsibility is justifiable and what effect Racine wants this to have on the audience's perception of Phèdre, Œnone and the tragic outcome as a whole. Let us start with the actions of Œnone that can be considered to have caused the tragedy. In her position as Phèdre's nurse and confidante, Œnone has a great influence over her mistress. From the beginning of the ...

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