In ancient Greek plays, the chorus played an important part in the telling of the story. They were considered the narrator of the play, and often sang songs between speeches and continued the story between scenes.
In modern American musicals, the chorus usually functions as the "choir." Singing large songs, act openings and closing, moving the story forward, and singing backup for the principals.
In some ways, the chorus hasn't changed much since the ancient Greek days!
It was meant for everyone to enjoyIt was designed to ask tough questionsIt was meant to be educationalComedy and Tragedy were the most popular themes in plays.
The Greek chorus was a group of approximately twelve actors who acted similar to modern narrators in Greek plays. They were integral to the plays and would sometimes have over half of the lines. Their job was to comment on the action in the play, either by speaking all together or by singing. They would dress similarly and wear masks. The role of the Greek chorus was to provide time for scene changes, give the main actors a break and time to prepare for the next scene, offer background information and information about the main themes, to offer an insight into a character's thoughts and feelings, and just generally act as a go-between for the audience and the actors. Incidentally, battles and murders were not allowed to be performed in Greek theatres and so the chorus would tell the audience of such events instead of them being acted out.
Comedy and Tragedy. Although actually Shakespeare wrote as many Histories as he did Tragedies (10). Comedies were what he wrote the most (18).
The "parodos".
Interact directly with non-chorus characters is what the chorus leader can do that the other chorus members cannot do in ancient Greek theater.Specifically, the chorus is made up of respected, wise elders. Its members instruct the audience by explaining offstage and past events as well as onstage happenings. They entertain by dancing and singing across the stage. But they cannot interact directly with characters outside the chorus. Only the chorus leader can interact with both chorus and non-chorus members in the play.
nothing
He created "tragedy"
The Chorus in Electra, the Greek tragedy by Euripides, consisted of the virgin country women from Mycenae.
to provide a commentary on what is happening
χορόςIn tragedy the term stated the choir (
In ancient Greek tragedy, the number of actors was limited to three, but the chorus and chorus leader could also be used.
Aeschylus is recognized as the father of Greek tragedy
In a Greek tragedy, the chorus serves multiple functions, including providing commentary on the events of the play, reflecting the emotional and moral atmosphere, and offering insights into the themes and dilemmas faced by the characters. They often represent the voice of the community, expressing collective opinions and concerns, and can also engage with the audience directly. Additionally, the chorus helps to establish the setting and context, enhancing the dramatic effect of the narrative. Overall, their presence enriches the storytelling and deepens the exploration of the human condition.
A comic foil
comic foil
Greek philosophy describes tragedy as an "imitation of an action"
Themes in greek tragedy are the nature of divinity and the relations of human beings to the gods.