Prologue: The Nurse outlines the history of Jason and Medea - she is worried about Medea's reaction to Jason marrying the daughter of Creon. The Tutor arrives - he has overheard that Creon intends to banish Medea and her sons.
First Episode: Medea enters and bewails the lot of women. Creon enters and banishes her, fearing that she will do something terrible. Medea pleads with him and he gives in. Medea plots her revenge.
Second Episode: Jason arrives offering to help Medea in her exile and proclaiming his loyalty. Medea responds angrily, and describes how she has been betrayed. Jason defends himself and argues that she is being foolish to turn down his help. Medea accuses him of thinking of nothing but his new wife.
Third episode: Aegeus arrives on his way back from Delphi. He sympathises with Medea's plight and offers her safe haven in Athens. Medea announces her plans to kill Creon's wife and her own children.
Fourth episode: Jason returns and Medea convinces him that she now repents her earlier words. He agrees to ask Creon not to exile the children and Medea gives the children gifts to present to Creon's daughter.
Fifth Episode: The Tutor announces that the gifts have been delivered and is surprised by Medea's reaction to the news. Medea addresses her children and wavers, but ends up certain of her plans.