Question 1: Describe the role of Dionysus in the origins of Greek theatre. How was he worshipped, and how did this influence theatrical performances?

Answer: Dionysus was the god of wine, fertility, and revelry, and he was central to the origins of Greek theatre. He was worshipped through festivals such as the Dionysia, which included processions, sacrifices, and performances. These festivals fostered communal celebration and were the setting for the development of theatre, as performances of tragedies and comedies were staged as offerings to Dionysus. The religious aspect encouraged a sense of collective participation and inspired themes of human emotion and morality in performances.

Question 2: Identify and define two key elements that distinguish tragedy from comedy in Greek theatre. Use appropriate drama terminology.

Answer: In Greek theatre, tragedy is characterized by serious themes, noble characters, and a focus on human suffering and moral dilemmas, often culminating in catharsis. It employs dramatic irony, choruses, and a structured plot with a tragic hero. Comedy, on the other hand, is marked by humorous content, satire, and exaggerated characters; it aims to entertain and provoke laughter, often through parody or social critique. Both forms use chorus and theatrical conventions but differ in tone and purpose.

Question 3: Explain the structure of a typical Greek tragedy, including the role of the chorus.

Answer: A typical Greek tragedy follows a structured format: the prologue introduces the conflict, followed by the parodos (choral entrance), then episodes (scenes) where the action unfolds. The chorus provides commentary, reflects on the themes, and interacts with characters, often singing or chanting. The stasimon (choral ode) offers reflection after episodes, and the exodus concludes the play. The chorus helps to set the mood, provide background information, and engage the audience emotionally.

Question 4: Practical Task: Think about a modern story or issue. Write a brief outline of a scene that could be performed as a Greek comedy, using exaggeration and satire to comment on the issue.

Answer: Students should select a current social issue, such as social media addiction. The outline could involve characters exaggerated as 'tech zombies,' constantly glued to oversized smartphones, with humorous dialogue highlighting their absurd dependency. The scene could include a satire on how social media controls people's lives, using physical comedy (e.g., characters tripping over cords or bumping into each other) and humorous monologues that parody influencer culture. The goal is to entertain while critiquing the issue, employing exaggeration and parody.

Question 5: Describe how the use of masks in Greek theatre contributed to the storytelling and performances. Include drama terminology in your explanation.

Answer: In Greek theatre, masks were essential as they helped actors embody different characters, ages, and emotional states. They also amplified facial expressions, allowing the audience to interpret characters’ feelings from a distance. Masks often had exaggerated features to emphasize traits or emotions, and their use facilitated quick character changes in a male-dominated theatre. Masks contributed to the overall visual storytelling and helped maintain the stylized, symbolic nature of Greek performances.

Question 6: Practical Task: Develop a short improvisation activity where students perform as characters from a Greek comedy. Describe the scenario and roles involved.

Answer: Scenario: A parody of a Greek marketplace where merchants exaggeratedly argue over trivial items. Roles include a boastful fruit vendor, a scheming trader trying to cheat customers, and a loud customer. Students should use physical comedy, exaggerated gestures, and humorous dialogue to portray their characters. The activity encourages improvisation, timing, and the use of comedic stereotypes typical of Greek comedy, such as absurdity and satire.

Question 7: Analyze how the themes of morality and fate are explored in Greek tragedy. Provide examples of plays or characters.

Answer: Greek tragedies often explore themes of morality and fate through characters facing inevitable destinies dictated by the gods or cosmic forces. For example, in Sophocles' 'Oedipus Rex,' Oedipus' tragic flaw (hubris) leads to his downfall, illustrating moral blindness and the consequences of human arrogance. Fate is a central theme, as characters struggle against predetermined outcomes, highlighting the limitations of human agency and the importance of accepting moral responsibility. These themes provoke reflection on human nature and divine justice.

Question 8: Reflective Question: How do the origins of Greek theatre still influence modern drama and performance styles? Provide specific examples.

Answer: Greek theatre's emphasis on tragic and comedic elements, the use of masks, choruses, and structured plots continue to influence modern drama. For example, contemporary plays often explore moral dilemmas similar to Greek tragedies, and the use of masks or makeup can be seen in avant-garde performances or musicals. The concept of a chorus as a narrator or commentator persists in musical theater and modern plays, highlighting societal issues through collective voices. Overall, Greek theatrical conventions laid the groundwork for many storytelling techniques still used today.

Question 9: Describe how you would stage a Greek comedy scene to maximize comedic effect. Mention specific theatrical techniques and drama terminology.

Answer: To stage a Greek comedy scene effectively, I would use exaggerated physical gestures, slapstick comedy, and facial expressions to enhance humor. Incorporating timing and rhythm in delivery, as well as physical gags like pratfalls or exaggerated costumes, would amplify the comedic effect. Using chorus-like commentary or humorous monologues can add layers of satire. Ensuring that the set is simple yet symbolic, with clear visual cues, helps focus on physical comedy and timing, key elements in Greek comedic performance.