Greek/Roman Theatre Timeline

The Theatre of Dionysus, was an ancient Greek theater in Athens, initially built in the 6th century BCE and was considered the worlds first purpose-built theatre. The first orchestra terrace was constructed around this time. “Originally laid in the sixth century BCE, the Theatre of Dionysus was subject to several additions and renovations, including the installation of tiered stone seats believed to accommodate 17,000 spectators sometime during the fourth century BC”(Theatre of Dionysus).

Thespis is the first actor in Western theatre. He is credited with introducing the concept of individual actors stepping out of the chorus and engaging in dialogue. Laying the foundation for dramatic storytelling and the development of theatre as we know it, hence the term "thespian" for actors. “Thespis flourished in the 6th century BC, Athens, He was Greek poet, said to have been born in the district of Icaria according to ancient tradition.” (Britannica).

Aeschylus was an ancient Greek playwright, described as the father of tragedy. His plays often dealt with grand themes, such as justice, fate, and human suffering. Aeschylus was well known because he introduced the second actor allowing for more complex dialogue and this created dramatic tension, He was also known for using elaborate costumes, masks, and stage effects to enhance the storytelling. Aeschylus died in Gela, Sicily, his influence shaped Greek drama his plays still preformed today.

Sophocles was one of ancient Greece’s tragedians, also one of the three great tragic playwrights.. He is best known for his mastery of the dramatic character and character development. Sophocles introduced the third actor on stage, this gave a richer dialogue and allowed for complex interactions among the characters. His works feature deep human characteristics whose situations sometimes match those of the audience. Sophocles human emotions have had and will continue to impact Western drama.

Euripides was the last of the three great tragedians and is often considered the most modern of the three. He is known for his unconventional portrayals of mythological characters. His plays had strong female characters and explored the darker side of human nature, while questioning traditional values. Unlike the other two great tragedians Euripides gave his characters human emotions and internal struggles. He died in Macedonia, inspiring playwrights later and his plays are still performed.

Aristophanes was the most well known representative of Greek comedy, his works have been preserved in great quantity, known for his sharp wit. "He was an Athenian citizen belonging to the clan named Pandionis". His plays showcased lighthearted humor and imaginative plots that held the audience's attention. Aristophanes' work remains influential not only as historical insight but also for its humor. His ability to keep humor while still putting a political commentary in his work was impeccable.

The Theatre at Epidaurus is one of the most well known examples of classical architecture. This theatre is known for its extraordinary acoustics. At this theatre, even the back row is able to hear actors with no amplification. This is due to the theaters' structure. It was built on the slope of Mt. Kynortio. This theatre can seat around 14,000 people, the theatre is laid out in a semi-circular layout. The limestone seats are believed to have a filtering effect helping the clarity of speech.

Livius Andronicus was the founder of Roman epic and dramatic poetry. “He was a Greek slave, freed by a member of the Livian family; he may have been captured as a boy when Tarentum surrendered to Rome in 272 bc.” (Britannica). After he was a free man he earned his living teaching Latin and Greek in Rome. He is credited to be the first to compose poems of the Greek type in Latin. Andronicus was known for translating Homer's Odyssey into Latin, marking the beginning of Latin literature.

Theatre of Marcellus in Rome was built by Julius Caesar and was completed by Augustus. This theatre was an ancient open-air theatre in Rome, Italy. "The theatre got its name from Augustus’s nephew, Marcus Claudius Marcellus"(Britannica). The Theatre of Marcellus is most known for hosting secular games; these were ancient Roman religious celebrations held to mark the end of one era. This theatre could hold up to 20,500 people and was equipped to host poetry, music recitals, and plays.

Romans began performing ceremonies called Lectisterniums. “Lectisternium, a Roman version of Greek klinē and theoxenia, a banquet for gods whose images were placed on a cushioned couch or couches” (Linderski).These ceremonies were used as a means of giving offerings to Roman gods. All the ceremonies were supervised by priests but also required public participation.

“Thespis.” Britannica, www.britannica.com/art/Greek-literature/Lyric-poetry. “Theatre of Dionysus.” This Is Athens, www.thisisathens.org/antiquities/theatre-dionysus#:~:text=Originally%20laid%20in%20the%20sixth,during%20the%20fourth%20century%20BC. “Theatre of Marcellus.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., www.britannica.com/topic/Theatre-of-Marcellus. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

“Aeschylus.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., www.britannica.com/biography/Aeschylus-Greek-dramatist. “Euripides.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., 28 Feb. 2025, www.britannica.com/biography/Euripides
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“Aristophanes.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., 5 Mar. 2025, www.britannica.com/biography/Aristophanes.

“Sophocles.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., 13 Feb. 2025, www.britannica.com/biography/Sophocles. ASI Architectural. “The Theater at Epidaurus: Acoustic Design.” ASI Architectural, 29 June 2022, www.asiarchitectural.com/theater-at-epidaurus “Lucius Livius Andronicus.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., www.britannica.com/biography/Lucius-Livius-Andronicus. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

Linderski, J. “Lectisternium.” Oxford Classical Dictionary, 7 Mar. 2016, oxfordre.com/classics/display/10.1093/acrefore/9780199381135.001.0001/acrefore-9780199381135-e-3627#:~:text=Lectisternium%2C%20a%20Roman%20version%20of,and%20repel%20pestilence%20or%20enemy.