H28.0711 Lecture 4 Credits
Instructor(s): Michael Bolus
A grounding in the theatrical form known as classical Greek drama provides an essential tool for actors, designers, directors, dramaturges, playwrights and theatre historians in tracing the development and cultural influence of these superb ancient plays that have had such a profound influence on all aspects of modern drama. To fully understand an ancient text it is essential to gain knowledge of the life and times of the audience for whom it was originally intended and to gain insight into the powerful ritualistic and political forces that acted upon shaping these plays. To this end this course will examine in detail the only surviving complete trilogy from the fifth century, Aeschylus’ Oresteia and study in depth two diverse comedies of Aristophanes Clouds and Birds. The course will also equip students with a detailed knowledge of the work of Sophocles and Euripides and examine the influence of these playwrights on Roman, Elizabethan, 18th and 19th century and modern drama.
