Hippolytus
Through the first half of the play, Hippolytus is annoying and self-righteous. The way he reacts to the Nurse telling him about Phaedra's desire for him seems way too dramatic. In the second half of the play, his portrayal is different. He seems to be more of just a very pious man who is trying his best to please Artemis. The way the Messenger defends him by saying he wouldn't not believe Hippolytus was evil "even if the entire race of women hang themselves and write all over Ida's pine forest," is a powerful defense for Hippolytus. It speaks to his character and nobility. The conclusion of the play makes the reader sympathetic for Hippolytus. Even though his father cursed him and he is now on the verge of death because of it, he still finds it in his heart to forgive him. He was doing what he thought was right and got caught in the wrath of a goddess.