Question 1: Who was Dionysus, and why was he important to the origins of Greek theatre?

Answer: Dionysus was the Greek god of wine, fertility, and revelry. He was important to Greek theatre because festivals dedicated to him, called Dionysia, celebrated his myth and were the origins of theatrical performances. These festivals included choral hymns and improvisational performances that eventually evolved into formal plays. Dionysus symbolized the spirit of celebration, chaos, and artistic creativity central to early Greek drama.

Question 2: Describe the role of the Chorus in Greek theatre. How did it contribute to the performance?

Answer: The Chorus was a group of performers who sang, danced, and recited in unison, commenting on the action and providing background information. They helped set the mood, explored themes, and engaged the audience. The Chorus also interacted with the actors, often representing the voice of the community or the gods, and added a musical and rhythmic element to the performance.

Question 3: Identify and explain the difference between tragedy and comedy in Greek theatre.

Answer: Tragedy was a serious genre that depicted the downfall of a noble character, often involving themes of fate, gods, and moral dilemmas, with the aim of evoking catharsis or emotional release. Comedy, on the other hand, was a humorous genre that used satire, humor, and exaggeration to entertain and often criticize society or politics. Both genres used masks and stylized acting, but tragedy aimed to provoke reflection, while comedy aimed to amuse.

Question 4: Imagine you are performing as a Greek actor. Describe how you would use your mask to portray a tragic hero versus a comedic character.

Answer: As a Greek actor, I would choose masks with distinct features to convey different characters. For a tragic hero, I would wear a mask with a serious or somber expression, possibly with a furrowed brow and downturned mouth to show sadness or pain. For a comedic character, I would select a mask with exaggerated features such as a big nose, wide mouth, or humorous expression to evoke laughter and highlight the character's foolishness or satire.

Question 5: Perform a short improvisation: Act out a scene where a Greek chorus comments on a conflict between two characters. Use appropriate drama techniques and describe your choices.

Answer: In this improvisation, I would first establish the setting and characters, then have the Chorus enter with rhythmic movement and chant or sing lines that comment on the conflict. I would use gestures, tone of voice, and movement to emphasize the emotional stakes. For example, if two characters are arguing about a decision, the Chorus might sing in unison, 'Oh, what trouble this dispute brings, heed the gods and find peace,' to heighten the drama. I would also use eye contact and spatial awareness to interact with the audience, making the Chorus’s commentary engaging and dynamic.

Question 6: Why were masks so important in Greek theatre, and how did they help actors express emotions?

Answer: Masks were important because they allowed actors to portray different characters, genders, and social statuses, often with exaggerated features for visibility. They also helped actors express emotions clearly to large audiences; the exaggerated facial expressions of masks conveyed feelings such as joy, sorrow, or anger even from a distance. Additionally, masks helped actors switch roles easily during performances.

Question 7: Draw or describe a typical Greek theatre stage and seating area. How did the design of the theatre influence performance?

Answer: Students should describe or sketch a semi-circular seating arrangement called the theatron, with tiered seats for spectators, a circular or rectangular stage called the orchestra where actors performed, and a skene building behind the stage for entrances, exits, and scene changes. The semi-circular design amplified sound and allowed large audiences to see and hear the performance clearly. The open-air setting encouraged lively, outdoor performances and enhanced the communal experience.

Question 8: What are some similarities and differences between Greek tragedy and modern drama?

Answer: Similarities include the use of storytelling to explore human experiences, themes of morality, and the importance of acting and staging. Differences are that Greek tragedies often involved gods and fate, with stylized language and masks, whereas modern drama covers a wider range of topics and styles, often with realistic acting and minimal costumes. Modern theatre may also use advanced technology and special effects, unlike the simple, symbolic Greek theatre.

Question 9: How do you think Greek theatre has influenced the plays and performances we see today? Provide specific examples.

Answer: Greek theatre influenced modern plays through its development of dramatic structure, such as the use of acts and scenes, and themes like heroism and morality. The concept of the tragic hero and the use of dialogue are still central. For example, Shakespeare’s tragedies, like 'Hamlet,' reflect Greek themes of fate and moral conflict. The idea of a chorus is echoed in modern musical ensembles and narrators. The use of masks has also influenced mime and physical theatre forms.

Question 10: Choose a Greek play (e.g., 'Oedipus Rex' or 'Lysistrata') and write a brief scene that includes dialogue and chorus commentary. Use drama terminology in your writing.

Answer: Sample answer: Students should write a short scene with at least two characters in dialogue, illustrating conflict or emotion. The chorus should enter and provide commentary, using techniques like rhythmic speech or song, to enhance the scene. The scene should show understanding of Greek dramatic conventions, including the use of masks, stylized language, and chorus interaction.