CONVENTIONS AND FEATURES
MASKS -
Masks played an important role in Greek theatre, as they enabled small groups of actors to play multiple characters, and portray different feelings and emotions. In Tragedy plays, the masks portrayed a painful and dejected expression, whereas in Comedy plays, the masks expressions were filled with contentment and exuberance. |
THE ORCHESTRA - The orchestra was a large circular/rectangular area were the plays, dancing, religious rites and acting would take place. SKENE - The Skene acted as a 'backstage' where the actors and performers would change their masks and costumes. It was a rectangular shaped building that situated behind the orchestra, originally the Skene was just a simple tent/hut, but over time, it was constructed into a permanent stone structure. |
COMEDY PLAYS - Comedy plays often made fun of Greek society and it's workings of political institutions, legal systems, religious practises and warfare. The Comedy plays followed a certain structure with 4 parts. The first part was called the 'Parados'. Where the Chorus would perform multiple songs and dance routines, often in humorous or intriguing costumes. The second part was the 'Agon' which was often a witty debate between the actors with several plot elements and fast changing of scenes. The third part of the play was the 'Parabasis', were the Chorus spoke directly to the audience and sometimes even to the poet. And the last was called the 'Exodos' were the Chorus performed another song and dance routine. |
TRAGEDY PLAYS -
Many tragedy plays were influenced by Greek myths and Greek religion. And they followed the storyline of a protagonist, who goes through many hardships and struggles in their lifetime. The endings of tragedy plays can vary, but many of them end with the protagonist becoming the hero of the story, or dying in the process of defeating the antagonist. |