A tragedy centred on Deianira, wife of the hero Heracles, who has been away from home for a long time. As she waits anxiously for news, messengers bring word of his return and of events that disturb her peace. Wanting to keep her husband's love, she acts on advice that she believes is harmless. The play explores marriage, jealousy, trust and the dangers of good intentions, and it gives an unusual amount of attention to a woman's inner life in a story about a famous hero.