Greek Drama: From Ritual to Theater

Deftly sketching the evolution of ancient Greek drama from the early choral songs dedicated to Dionysus, god of wine and transformation, to the great Athenian plays of the classical period, this nearly-hour-long documentary—the equivalent of an illustrated lecture—explains basic themes and defines associated literary and philosophical terms. The treatment is strong on the social importance of theatre in Greek life, especially in Athens, but slights the political dimension and the musical aspects (the choral portions of the plays were still sung in ancient times), although it does introduce viewers to the architecture of the amphitheaters, visiting several surviving sites and pointing out that all roles were played by men wearing masks. The film also includes individual scenes from four major plays—Sophocles' Antigone and Oedipus Rex, Euripides' Medea, and Aristophanes' Lysistrata (Aeschylus, unfortunately, goes unrepresented)—noting that the three tragedians shared many concerns but also differed in important respects. Greek Drama also traces the survival of texts, the early decline of drama, and its revival as part of the ritual of the medieval church. Excerpts from interviews with academics (including noted translator Robert Fagles), directors, and actors complement the straightforward narration. A solid addition to courses on ancient civilization and drama, this is recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (F. Swietek)