 While historians believe that "Phaedra" was heavily influenced by Euripides' "Hippolytus", there are several differences in plot and tone.Literary scholar Albert S. Gérard states that, unlike the Phaedra of "Hippolytus", Seneca's Phaedra is a thoughtful and intelligent character that acknowledges the improper and amoral nature of her feelings towards her stepson, yet still pursues him.In Euripides' iteration of the play, Phaedra is passive in her lustful anguish, and it is the Nurse that informs Hippolytus of Phaedra's love for him.