Greek Theater Guided Notes

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms, concepts, structure, and historical figures of ancient Greek theater.

City Dionysia

A religious festival held in Athens where Greek theater began, taking place when winter changes into spring.

Dithyrambs

Choral songs sung during the original performances at the religious festival.

Theatron

The "seeing place" where the audience sat; the front row was reserved for officials.

Orchestra

The circular dancing place where actors and the chorus performed.

Thymele

An altar to Dionysus located in the center of the Orchestra.

Parodos

The entrance used by the chorus.

Skene

The dressing room behind the stage.

Proskenion

The façade of the scene building which served as a backdrop.

Thespis

Known as the "Father of drama", he introduced the first actor and dialogue.

Aeschylus

Known as the "Father of tragedy", he added the second actor.

Sophocles

A playwright who added the third actor, fixed the chorus size to 15, and introduced painted scenery.

Euripides

A playwright who reduced the role of the chorus and used a psychological approach to moral problems.

Chorus

A group of up to 50 male citizens aged 17-21 who provided background information, set the mood, and remained on stage.

Messengers

Performers who communicated violent acts to the audience because all violence occurred offstage.

Deus Ex Machina

Translated as "hand of god," representing the appearance of a divinity.

Protagonist

The main character in a work.

Tragedy

An imitation of a serious action that evokes fear or pity in the viewer.

Aristotle's 3 Unities

The three unities of plot: time, place, and action.

Hamartia

A tragic flaw or error in judgment.

Hubris

Excessive pride or arrogance; an example of hamartia.