12 Questions
What was the primary purpose of Greek theatre in the 7th century B.C.E?
to celebrate religious festivals
What role did the chorus play in Greek theatre?
The chorus either sang or chanted the script.
Why are actors also known as 'Thespians'?
Because Thespis is credited with creating the 'first actor' who broke away from the chorus.
What was the significance of masks in Greek theatre?
Masks allowed actors to play multiple characters.
How did Roman theatre differ from Greek theatre in terms of religious influence?
Roman theatre was less influenced by religion than Greek theatre.
What innovation did the Roman playwright Terence introduce to theatre?
The concept of a subplot, allowing the audience to contrast the reactions of different characters to the same events.
What was the audience's behavior like in the early days of medieval European theatre?
The audience did not applaud, but rather shouted insults and booed.
What was the purpose of the code developed by actors in medieval European theatre?
The code told the audience about a character's identity by their appearance, such as wigs and robes.
What was the dominant influence on theatre in medieval Europe?
The Roman Catholic Church had a strong influence on theatre.
What were the three types of 'vernacular dramas' that emerged in medieval Europe?
Mystery plays, Miracle plays, and Morality plays.
What was unique about Commedia dell'Arte, Italy's contribution to theatre?
Commedia dell'Arte required few props and no sets, and the actors improvised dialogue based on 'scenarios'.
What was the Italian contribution to theatre during the Renaissance and Reformation?
The development of the proscenium, or 'picture frame stage'.
Test your knowledge of ancient Greek theatre, from its creation in the 7th century BCE to its key features and pioneers. Explore the role of the chorus, the significance of Thespis, and more. How well do you know the roots of Western theatre?
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