Greek Drama

            Everything in ancient Greek culture seems to revolve around their gods, and their gods are indubitably reflected in Greek drama. In particular, the Dionysus Festival that occurred in Athens once or twice a year is of particular interest to me and I would love to have the chance to travel back in time and experience a festival for myself. It makes sense that theatre is an appropriate way to celebrate Dionysus because as the god of fertility and wine, Dionysus was a “god who stood for a break-down of hierarchy,” allowing boundaries to be crossed—particularly involving political power and sexual and scatological humor that even prisoners were allowed towatch. I also specifically enjoy how Greek comedy in particular used satire and body humor to “expose the deepest flaws of society.

            I would also love to go back in time and see a Greek theatre during the height of ancient Greek theatre. I could imagine that watching a play on a hillside would create a very unique experience for the audience, especially with the beautiful and colorful costumes and masks, as well as the all male cast of actors. While some of today’s theatre is inspired by Greek theatre, one could never have the same experience as an audience member, sitting in a theatre that could accommodate 15,000- 20,000 people.

            Theatre has definitely progressed since 5^th century BC, however I have enjoyed learning about how far theatre has come and how different it once was.