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Greek Theater. A QUICK!! Overview. The Known Playwrights. Thespis- the first actor One character stepped forward from the chorus to narrate or tell the story Aeschylus Added a second character and dialog Sophocles Used three characters and created more realistic dramatic scenes Euripides
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Greek Theater A QUICK!! Overview
The Known Playwrights • Thespis- the first actor • One character stepped forward from the chorus to narrate or tell the story • Aeschylus • Added a second character and dialog • Sophocles • Used three characters and created more realistic dramatic scenes • Euripides • Created psychologically complex characters
Sophocles • Developed form of tragedy to a high art • Plays focused on humans under the influence of the gods • Stories taught moral and social lessons • Oedipus Cycle • Told the story of a great king who violated the rules of the gods (and society)
Oedipus Rex • Oedipus was raised as an orphan • Went to search for his true origins • Killed the Sphynx, became king and married the former queen • Learned that she was his mother!! • Blinded himself and became an exile
What lessons do we learn? • Humility • Only the gods can determine the path of your life • Sometimes you can see the truth better when you are blind.
Sources • Discovery Education • Oedipus Mask: http://faculty.gilman.edu/.../EH31_SPR_F_02-03.htm • Great Buildings On Line:http://www.greatbuildings.com/buildings/Theater_at_Epidauros.html
Essential Question • What role did the gods and oracles, fate and self-determination play in the everyday lives of the Greeks?
Discussion Questions In what ways can one’s destiny be predicted? How many of you believe in prophecies?
Discussion Questions • Can you name any political leader who has made a mistake which cost him/her his career (or even life)? • What motivated the leader to make the mistake? • Can you think of any examples where pride was the major factor?
Hubris • Hubris is the Greek concept of pride. It is a pride that is likely to invoke the wrath of the gods.
Dramatic irony • The audience knows information that the characters do not.
(Bell Work)Ticket out the Door • Revisit page 471. When Oedipus responds to the priest, what does his response reveal about his character? • What news does Creon bring back from the gods? (473) What does Creon say must be done?
(Bell Work)Close reading for characterization • Revisit page 482, lines 428-455 or • Page 483, lines 460-486. • 1. Give a summary of the lines. What is Oedipus or Teiresias saying to the other? • 2. What do these lines reveal about Oedipus’ character. Note what the lines say and how Oedipus’ responds to the news.
Class Reading of Oedipus • The play Oedipus the King was written nearly 2500 years ago and is considered one of the greatest Greek tragedies. • To “see” the play unfold, take notes on the development of Greek theater.