Greek Theater Research Paper

The belief that art was capable of capturing the essence of human form and feeling was the spark that led Ancient Greece through their tremendous cycle and development of the many categories in the arts. Ancient Greece is noted to be the greatest influence on Western societies, accolades include the following, art, literature, philosophy and science. Greece was built off two Bronze Age civilizations located in the eastern Mediterranean, the Minoan and the Mycenean.
Athens, the capital and largest city in Greece is credited to the creation of what is known as Greek theater. Athenians utilized theater as a medium to mirror their cultures most important questions, such as what type of power the gods had, the course of love and justice, and human destiny. “Classical Tragedy” originated from the worship of Dionysus, “the God of wine, revelry, and intoxication” (Bishop). Generally consisting Dionysus worshippers dressing in costume and singing praise to the him. …show more content…
“Catharsis” is a metaphor Aristotle often used in his works. Catharism is the effect a main character endures during a tragedy, in which he/she “commits some error of judgement, so then in turn suffers a reversal of fortune and recognizes his folly. The character then achieves the purpose of the tragedy” (Bishop). The use of Aristotle’s catharsis and the overall effect of the tragedies can be described as learning experiences. The main purpose was usually found to be entertaining, but the audience often left with a new perspective. The importance of showing a darker side of life and emotions being performed can be seen now as an intellectual way to educate the masses. The crowds came to enjoy the performance but that was not always the only thing the writer/creator was trying to get across. Having a hidden message or portraying the darker common side of life was an outlet to