Ancient Greek Theatre Research Paper

How many countless influences do we obtain from the Greeks? In what ways do they characterize modern thinking? Whether it's our use of democracy, the lessons of the sciences, or our advancements in art and architecture, it can usually be traced back to the Grecian civilization. However, arguably one of its most significant and interesting contributions would have to be its timeless impact on theatre. Ancient Greek theatre has paved the way for Shakespeare, Molière, and to Oscar Wilde of the 19th century. Ancient Greek theatre had the most significant impact on the incorporation of themes of comedy, tragedy, and satire, and the use of its platform for the expression of thought has influenced modern theatre and entertainment for centuries.
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It was created to be presented in an active storytelling that would take advantage of “people's pity, fear, and catharsis of passions” (Karayannakos). Through time it received specific guidelines such as the use of embellished language and the order of its parts. It is noted that “tragedy is the imitation of life itself, it was to give the spectator a chance to despise, pity, and love the leading actor” (Karayannakos). Emotion was a key part of its delivery, capitalizing on the pit of despair and punishment that the character must endure before the spectator can feel that justice has been served. Modern theatre highly profits from this theme as it reappears a limitless amount of times. (Cartwright) It draws inspiration from the Greeks with the use of doom, and how one sacrifice is atoned for another. Perhaps one of the most recognized poets of the 17th century, William Shakespeare made sure to incorporate emotions and human nature into his plays. One of the greater examples of modern tragedy, Romeo and Juliet, plays on the themes of love which leads to sorrow in the lead character’s story. The two lovers are overcome with passion and put aside all values, which epitomizes the Greek use of despair and arrogance. (Chapmen) Modern theatre has drawn enough inspiration from ancient Greek theatre to conflate on both naturalism and drama.