Questions and Answers
Which work was written by Aeschylus?
Which work was written by Aristophanes?
Which work was written by Euripides?
Which work was written by Sophocles?
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Which work is the only trilogy of the classical period to have survived intact?
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Which work satirizes the legal system in ancient Athens?
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Which work is by the playwright whose tragedies are regarded as the high point of classical Greek drama?
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Which work is regarded as the epitome of classical Athenian tragedy?
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Which work is by the earliest of the three great tragedians?
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Which work is credited with expanding the number of actors in plays?
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Which work is by the playwright who introduced a second actor?
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Which work introduced a third actor in the drama?
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Which work was hailed by Aristotle as the finest of all classical Greek tragedies?
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Which work features the characters Tiresias and Jocasta?
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Which work features the characters Agamemnon, Clytemnestra, Electra, and Orestes?
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Which work features the character Jason?
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Which play features an ill-tempered old man addicted to serving on juries?
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In which work is a cycle of bloodshed supplanted by the rule of law?
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Which work, first performed in 431 BCE, introduces a realism which shocks audiences?
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Which play is a classic of Old Comedy characterized by social criticism?
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Which work is by the author of Antigone?
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Which work is by the author of The Clouds?
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Which work is by the author of The Persians?
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Which work is by the author of Prometheus Bound?
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Which work is by the author of Seven Against Thebes?
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Study Notes
Aeschylus and Oresteia
- Oresteia is the only trilogy from the classical period that has survived intact.
- Aeschylus is recognized as the earliest of the three great tragedians and is considered an innovator in drama.
- Introduced the concept of dramatic conflict by expanding the number of actors and their interactions in plays.
Aristophanes and Wasps
- Wasps satirizes the legal system in ancient Athens, showcasing potential exploitation by corrupt politicians.
- Known for employing elements of Old Comedy such as ribald humor, social criticism, and fantasy.
Euripides and Medea
- Medea, first performed in 431 BCE, shocked audiences with its realism and intense themes.
- Features the character Jason and focuses on themes of betrayal and revenge.
Sophocles and Oedipus the King
- Oedipus the King is hailed by Aristotle as one of the finest examples of classical Greek tragedy and is viewed as the epitome of Athenian tragedy.
- Introduced a third actor (tritagonist), adding complexity to character interactions.
- Key characters in the play include Tiresias and Jocasta, central to the unfolding tragedy.
Key Themes and Concepts
- Oresteia explores the transition from cycles of bloodshed to the establishment of law and order, influenced by the goddess Athena.
- Oedipus the King exemplifies the tragic hero archetype, with themes of fate, self-discovery, and moral ambiguity.
Important Figures
- Aeschylus: Innovator of dramatic form, author of Oresteia.
- Aristophanes: Master of Old Comedy, author of Wasps.
- Euripides: Known for psychological depth in characters, author of Medea.
- Sophocles: Elevated dramatic structure with multiple actors, author of Oedipus the King.
Notable Character Connections
- Oresteia features Agamemnon, Clytemnestra, Electra, and Orestes, pivotal in its narrative.
- Medea centers around Jason, showcasing themes of vengeance and emotional turmoil.
Legacy of Works
- Each play remains significant in the study of Greek drama, offering insights into societal values, psychological complexity, and dramatic technique.
Studying That Suits You
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Description
Test your knowledge of Classical Greek Drama with these flashcards. Each card presents a question about the works of famous playwrights such as Aeschylus, Aristophanes, Euripides, and Sophocles. Perfect for students wanting to brush up on their literary knowledge.
