Actors Straithairn, Whitlock bring ancient tales of war to Norfolk

NORFOLK

Sophocles, the ancient Greek playwright, knew nothing of post-traumatic stress disorder, night-vision goggles or improvised explosive devices. And most modern soldiers probably don’t know anything about Ajax or Philoctetes, two warriors whose tragic stories Sophocles told some 2,500 years ago.

But there is much to be learned from the ancient accounts of combat and the psychological effects of war.

Tonight, in a special presentation called “Theater of War,” actors David Strathairn and Isiah Whitlock Jr. will do dramatic readings from Sophocles. The pilot project was created to address the emotional impact of war and is presented as part of the Pentagon-sponsored Warrior Resilience Conference this week in Norfolk.

The presentation is free and open to service members and veterans, their family members and care providers. The public is also welcome.

One story centers on Ajax, a hero of the Trojan War consumed by jealousy when another warrior garners more attention. The other features Philoctetes, abandoned by the Greek fleet on its way to the Trojan War only to be called back into action later.

Strathairn was nominated for an Academy Award for his portrayal of broadcaster Edward R. Murrow in the 2005 movie “Good Night, and Good Luck.” Whitlock played state Sen. Clay Davis in the HBO series "The Wire."

The reading will be followed by a panel discussion. The event begins at 7 p.m. at the Sheraton Waterside Hotel in Norfolk.