1. Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex" (also known as "Oedipus the King"): This tragic play tells the story of Oedipus, a king who unwittingly kills his father and marries his mother, fulfilling a prophecy. It is known for its exploration of fate, free will, and the complexity of human nature.
2. Aeschylus' "Oresteia" trilogy: This trilogy of plays - "Agamemnon," "The Libation Bearers," and "The Eumenides" - tells the story of the curse that plagues the house of Atreus, as Clytemnestra murders Agamemnon, and Orestes seeks revenge on his mother for killing his father. The trilogy delves into themes of justice, retribution, and the cycle of violence.
3. Euripides' "Medea": This tragic play follows Medea, a powerful sorceress who seeks vengeance on her husband Jason after he abandons her for another woman. Known for its intense emotions and exploration of themes such as betrayal, passion, and the destructive power of love.
4. Sophocles' "Antigone": This play explores the conflict between civil law and moral law as Antigone defies the orders of King Creon to bury her brother Polyneices, who was declared a traitor. It raises questions about individual conscience, loyalty, and the nature of justice.
5. Aristophanes' "Lysistrata": This comedic play presents a women's sex strike as a means to end a war between Athens and Sparta. Known for its use of humor, satire, and political commentary, addressing issues of peace, gender roles, and the follies of war.
These plays represent some of the most notable works from the ancient Greek theatre and continue to be admired and studied for their literary and dramatic achievements.