Greek Drama Terms

Dionysus

responsible for human impulses. It was believed that Dionysus could liberate and inspire man. It was also believed that he

Orchestra

A circular and level space where the chorus would dance, sing, and interact with the actors who were on the stage near the skene.

Theatron

This is where the spectators sat. The theatron was usually part of hillside overlooking the orchestra.

Skene

The skene was directly in back of the stage, and was usually decorated as a palace, temple, or other building, depending on the needs of the play. It had at least one set of doors, and actors could make entrances and exits 

Parados

The paths by which the chorus and some actors made their entrances and exits. The audience also used them to enter and exit the theater before and after the performance.

“city dionysia”

a festival of entertainment held in honor of the god dionysia

TragedY

tragodia in greek. Derived from the words Tragos. Centered around the rise and downfall of a hero. The conclusion of a tragedy was usually a messenger coming out to tell the audience of the tragic consequences.

Stories based on myths of history

prologue

described the situation and set the scene

parados

an ode sung by the chorus as it made its entrance

Ode

it provides commentary on the action that is at hand can be considered music or lyrics. 

Exodus

the climax and conclusion

Satyr Play

These were short plays performed between the acts of tragedies. They made fun of the plight of the tragedy’s characters. The satyrs  were mythical half- human, half-goat servants of Dionysus 

Thespis

 the most remarkable winning actor/ playwright was said to be wandering bard named thespis

Comedy

not admitted to Dionysus festival till 487- 486 B.C.- late the first comedies were mainly satirical  The first comedies were mainly satiricaland mocked men in power for their vanityand foolishness.

Slapstick and crude humor

Comedies usually concluded with a “happy ending” and the characters find a

resolution to the original conflict

List the functions of the chorus

1. To establish the ethical framework- the standard by which action will be judged

2. To set mood and heighten dramatic effect   

3. To add movement, spectacle, song, and dance

4. To provide rhythm-- pauses / paces the action so that the audience can reflect.

5. To provide time for scene changes and introduce background or summary information

6. To represent the ideal spectator -- take part in play, ask questions, react as the playwright intends the audience to react.