Greek Theatre Terms

Anagnorisis

Anagnorisis

The revelation or moment of recognition in a Greek Tragedy. The startling discovery that produces a change from ignorance to knowledge that occurs in the story’s climax.

Catastrophe

A reversal of fortune, occurring in the denouement of a drama, especially a Greek Tragedy.

Catharsis

The purgation of strong or negative emotions.

Deus ex Machina

Meaning “The God from the Machine.” Figuratively, it’s a plot device used to resolve the conflict and conclude the drama. Literally, the actor playing a god would be suspended from a “machine” or a “crane.”

Eccyclema

Meaning “The Thing Which Rolls Out.” A moveable platform used to display dead bodies or to wheel out characters who are ill.

Hamartia

A fatal flaw leading to the downfall of a tragic hero.

Hubris

Excessive pride toward or defiance of the gods.

Mimesis

The representation or imitation of the real world in art and literature.

Nemesis

Divine retribution sought against the people guilty of hubris; basically, the tragic hero’s downfall, which causes death, misery, and suffering.

Orchestra

The primary acting area; basically, the stage.

Parados

Entrances and exits to orchestra.

Pathos

The Greek word for “pity.”

Peripeteia

A sudden plot reversal or change in circumstances in a Greek Tragedy that occurs in the story’s climax.

Phobos

The Greek word for “fear.”

Skene

A building with several doors that opened towards the audience; used as dressing room or prop storage.

Theatron

Where audience sat on wooden benches and then, later, stone; basically; the house.