1. ANCIENT GREEK THEATER

2. Terms Theater- that which is seen Drama- acting out Tragedy- drama in which a hero undergoes a downfall that results from his tragic flaw or character weakness Comedy- drama that used satire (derived from characters called satyrs), wit, and often ridiculed celebrated figures.

3. Origins of Drama Cult of Dionysus, god of wine, fertility and procreation Religious rituals “ecstasis”- an altered mental state from uninhibited dancing and emotional displays. Greeks saw drama as a way of releasing powerful emotions through the ritualistic sacrifice of the tragic hero. Dithyrambs (choric hymns) evolved from purely religious ceremonies celebrating the adventures of Dionysis to ritualizing subjects from all periods of Greek mythology in “play” form: drama.

4. Golden Age Theater Thespis- wrote formal lyrics for the dithyramb and is credited with the innovation of the actor. This protagonist (main character of a drama) interacted with the chorus, hence the term thespian. Drama competitions were instituted in 534 BCE. Plays were performed in the daytime and competitions were spread over several days. Masks were worn that exaggerated facial expressions and aided in acoustics.

5. Functions of the Chorus Gives advice; takes part in the action Establishes ethical framework; set the moral standard Ideal spectator- reacts as playwright hopes audience will Sets mood and heightens suspense Adds movement, song, and dance Paces the action so that the audience can reflect

6. Physical Space The Golden Age of Greek theater was defined by amphitheaters which featured wooden spectator stands erected on hillsides above and around a platform in which the chorus would stand and move. As theater evolved, action moved from primarily the chorus in the orchestra area shifting to actors on the stage. Theatron “watching space”- spectator area Orchestra “dancing area”- circular location for the chorus between the stage and theatron Logeion- staging area to separate actors from chorus Skene- simply means “tent” or “hut” and represented palaces or houses around which plays were set; became the basis of modern scenery.

9. The physical space was arranged according to the political morality of the time—democracy—where everyone had equal access and equal view.