The epic poem chronicles the fratricidal conflict between Eteocles and Polynices as they battle for control of the Theban throne. The narrative follows the sons of Oedipus as they navigate the catastrophic consequences of their father's curse, drawing in gods and mortals alike into a cycle of violence. The work is structured into twelve books, utilizing the conventions of classical epic poetry to explore the limits of human ambition and the inexorable weight of fate. The text maintains a dramatic tone, focusing on the psychological and physical toll of civil war within the framework of ancient Greek mythology.

Discussion often centers on the poem's position within the Latin canon, frequently comparing its intensity to the works of Virgil. Readers highlight the vivid, often visceral descriptions of violence that define the conflict between the two brothers. Critics observe that the work successfully balances traditional epic tropes with a distinct, darker exploration of human morality and suffering. Many readers appreciate the translation's ability to maintain the rhythmic and linguistic vitality of the original Latin text. The poem remains a subject of study for its complex characterizations and its grim portrayal of the consequences of power.