AP English Lit - Greek Theratre and Tragedies/Terms

What were the origins and characteristics of early Greek theatre?

The Greek theatre history began with festivals honoring their gods, particularly Dionysus. Plays consisted of one actor, later expanding to three, with a chorus playing an active role. Theatrical forms included tragedy, comedy, and Satyr plays, used to explore the world and human existence.

What are the typical themes and plot structures of a Greek Tragedy?

Greek tragedies explore themes of love, loss, pride, abuse of power, and relationships between men and gods. The protagonist often commits a crime unknowingly, leading to a realization of their error and subsequent downfall.

Who were the three great playwrights of Greek tragedy?

Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides

Who was Euripides?

Known for realistic characters, exploring revenge, betrayal, and unchecked emotion. Used female protagonists, rejected religious beliefs and traditional myths. Works include Medea, The Bacchae, Helen, The Trojan Women.

What are the characteristics of a Greek Tragedy?

Based on past events familiar to the audience; protagonist of noble status or birth; protagonist’s downfall is caused by a character flaw; has a protagonist who, in spite of his flaw, gets sympathy from the audience; has a protagonist who gains self-knowledge through his fall; has a plot that unfolds in one place in about a day; audience experiences catharsis (a release of pent-up emotions).

What are the characteristics of a tragic hero?

Is neither completely good nor completely bad, evokes pity and fear, experiences a downfall due to a tragic character flaw (Hamartia), and is responsible for their downfall. They come to recognize error and accept consequences

What is Anagnorisis?

Startling discovery; moment of epiphany; the “aha!” or “oh no!” moment of the play

What is Situational Irony?

The opposite of what you expect to happen happens

What is Dramatic Irony?

Failure of a character to see or understand what is obvious to the audience

What is the role of the Chorus in Greek Theatre?

12 highly skilled singers/dancers, provided entertainment and fun, explain the action of the scene, player the perspective of the citizens, gives the author’s views/themes, acted as narrator, wore large baggy clothing

What is Hamartia?

Character flaw or error in judgement

What is Hubris?

Great pride, often the character flaw

What is Deus Ex Machina?

Arm-like device in an ancient Greek theater that could lower a “god” onto the stage from the “heavens”; term grew to mean a miraculous
saving

What is Peripateia?

Sudden reversal of fortune from good to bad

What is Statsismon?

A stationary song performed by the chorus that set the mood, provided details and expressed emotions

What is Nemesis?

Greek mythology, goddess of vengeance who punishes evil and rewards noble acts