Aristophanes J. Van Leeuwen"The Birds" is a Greek comedy written by Aristophanes in 414 BC. The play tells the story of two Athenians, Euelpides and Peisetaerus, who are disillusioned with life in Athens and decide to seek a new city in the sky, built by the birds. Upon arrivig in the avian city, the two men convince the birds to make Peisetaerus their leader and establish the city as a rival to Athens. With the help of the birds, Peisetaerus and Euelpides are able to make demands on the gods and control the affairs of men on earth. The play is a satire on Athenian politics and society, with the birds representing a new ruling class that is corrupt and self-serving. Aristophanes uses humor and wit to critique the political and social institutions of Athens, while also offering a vision of a better society that is built on cooperation and mutual respect. "The Birds" is also notable for its imaginative and surreal depiction of the avian city, which has inspired artists and writers throughout the ages. The play is a timeless masterpiece that continues to be studied and performed to this day, and its themes of power, corruption, and the human desire for a better world remain relevant in the modern age. Read More Read Less