Introduce the origins of theater and dramatic roles with this highly entertaining, animated video. It illustrates the evolution of the stage from the shrinking of the chorus in dramas during the fifth century BCE in Ancient Greece, as well as references the works of several famous Greek playwrights like Sophocles and Aeschylus.

Concepts

greek tragedies, Drama, dramatic plays, greek dramas, oedipus, ancient greece, sophocles, greek culture

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Additional Tags

visual and performing arts

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Instructional Ideas

• Before beginning the video, offer learners background information on the original structure of theater in Ancient Greece, including the function of the chorus and common themes of ancient Greek plays

Classroom Considerations

• The video reveals key plot features and turning points in the play Oedipus Rex
• Offers very broad overview of each playwright and their contributions to theater; learners should have already studied this information, or be preparing to study the Greek tragedies in greater depth

Pros

• Outlines primary contributions of major historical figures in the evolution of theater (Thespis, Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Philocles)
• Engaging graphics and animations
• Customize online discussion and assessment questions

Cons

• None

Common Core

RH.6-8.7