Lecture 3

Two Greek
Tragedies by
Sophocles
Sophocles
The Dynamics of the Greek Theater
The Greek theater was a central and integral part of ancient Greek culture, with its
dynamics shaped by cultural, social, and religious factors. Here are key aspects of the
dynamics of the Greek theater:
1.Religious and Civic Significance: Greek theater had deep roots in religious and civic
rituals. The earliest performances were part of religious festivals dedicated to Dionysus,
the god of wine, fertility, and theater. Festivals like the Dionysia in Athens provided a
platform for dramatic competitions.
2.Outdoor Amphitheaters: Performances took place in open-air amphitheaters, often built
into hillsides. The most renowned is the Theater of Dionysus in Athens, where tragedies
and comedies were staged. These amphitheaters could accommodate large audiences and
provided excellent acoustics.
3.Playwrights and Play Formats: Prominent playwrights like Aeschylus, Sophocles, and
Euripides wrote the majority of surviving Greek tragedies. Comedies were also popular,
with Aristophanes being a notable figure. Tragedies typically explored serious themes,
while comedies satirized societal issues and personalities.
The Dynamics of the Greek Theater

4. Chorus and Actors: Greek plays involved a chorus, a group of

performers who sang, danced, and provided commentary on the action.
The number of actors was limited, and actors often played multiple roles,
relying on masks to differentiate characters. The use of masks was a
convention in both tragedies and comedies.
5. Dramatic Conventions: Greek theater employed several conventions,
such as the unity of time, place, and action. Most plays focused on a
single story, occurring in a single location and within a single day. The
use of the "deus ex machina" (god from the machine) allowed for divine
intervention to resolve complex plotlines.
The Dynamics of the Greek Theater

6. Catharsis and Tragic Themes: Tragedies aimed to evoke emotional

responses, particularly pity and fear, leading to a purgation or catharsis of
these emotions in the audience. The exploration of tragic themes, moral
dilemmas, and the consequences of human actions were central to Greek
tragedy.
7. Competitive Festivals: Theater competitions were a central aspect of
festivals like the Dionysia. Playwrights competed for prestigious awards,
and the winning playwright enjoyed public recognition and acclaim. The
competitive nature of these festivals contributed to the artistic
development of Greek drama.
The Dynamics of the
Greek Theater

8. Political and Social

Commentary: Greek theater served
as a platform for political and social
commentary. Playwrights often used
allegory and symbolism to address
contemporary issues, challenge
societal norms, and question
authority
The Roots of the Greek Drama
• Greek drama, with its roots deeply embedded in the religious and cultural tapestry of
ancient Greece, originated as part of the worship and festivities dedicated to Dionysus,
the god of wine, fertility, and theater. The earliest forms of Greek drama emerged from
choral hymns known as dithyrambs, performed in celebration of Dionysus. The pivotal
transition toward a more structured and narrative form of drama is often attributed to
Thespis in the 6th century BCE, who introduced an actor separate from the chorus.
Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides further refined and expanded Greek drama during
the 5th century BCE, with innovations like multiple actors on stage and more intricate
plot developments.
• The city of Athens, particularly through the Dionysia festivals, became the epicenter of
theatrical excellence, showcasing tragedies and comedies in competitive performances.
The architecture of theaters evolved to accommodate large audiences, contributing to the
cultural and educational significance of Greek drama. Greek drama, thus, found its
genesis in religious rituals and evolved into a sophisticated and influential form of
artistic expression that not only entertained but also explored the complexities of the
human condition.
 The Major Greek Playwrights
The major Greek playwrights who significantly contributed to the development of ancient Greek drama,
particularly tragedy and comedy, include:
1. Aeschylus (c. 525–456 BCE): Often regarded as the father of Greek tragedy, Aeschylus introduced
2. the second actor on stage, allowing for more complex interactions. His notable works include "The
Oresteia" trilogy, which consists of "Agamemnon," "The Libation Bearers," and "The Eumenides."
2. Sophocles (c. 496–406 BCE): A prominent playwright of the Golden Age of Athens, Sophocles is
3. known for his innovative use of three actors on stage simultaneously. His best-known plays include
"Oedipus Rex," "Antigone," and "Electra."
3. Euripides (c. 480–406 BCE): Often considered a more unconventional and psychologically insightful
playwright, Euripides challenged traditional conventions. Notable works include "Medea," "The Bacchae,"
and "The Trojan Women."
4. Aristophanes (c. 446–386 BCE): The foremost writer of ancient Greek comedy, Aristophanes was known
for his satirical and humorous plays that often critiqued contemporary political and social issues. Famous
comedies include "Lysistrata," "The Clouds," and "The Frogs."

These playwrights played pivotal roles in shaping the two primary genres of ancient Greek drama – tragedy
and comedy. Their works were performed during major festivals, such as the Dionysia in Athens, and have
had a lasting influence on the history of theater and storytelling.
The Devices in the Greek Theater
Ancient Greek theater employed various theatrical
devices and conventions that contributed to the
distinctive nature of its performances. Some key
theatrical devices used in Greek theater include:

1.Chorus: The chorus was a central element in Greek

drama, consisting of a group of performers who sang,
danced, and provided commentary on the action. The
chorus often represented the collective voice of the
community, offering insights, moral reflections, and
emotional responses to the unfolding events.

2. Masks: Actors wore masks, each representing a

specific character or archetype. Masks helped the
audience distinguish between different characters and
conveyed exaggerated facial expressions that were
visible to the audience in the vast amphitheaters.
The Devices in the Greek Theater
3. Actor's Attire: Actors typically wore elaborate
costumes, including robes, tunics, and other garments
appropriate to their characters. The attire often
signaled the social status, gender, and identity of the
characters.
4. Tragic Irony: Greek tragedies often employed tragic
irony, where the audience possesses knowledge that
the characters on stage do not. This creates dramatic
tension as the audience watches events unfold, aware
of the impending tragedies that the characters are
oblivious to.
5. Unity of Time, Place, and Action: Greek plays
adhered to the principle of unity, where the action of
the play took place in a single location, within a
limited time frame (usually one day) and revolved
around a single central theme or plot. This contributed
to the simplicity and focus of the dramatic structure.
The Devices in the Greek Theater
6. Use of the Orchestra: The orchestra, a circular performance space in front of the stage, was used for choral
performances and dance. The term "orchestra" originally referred to the space for the chorus, not the
instrumental ensemble as it does in modern usage.
7. Deus ex Machina: Literally meaning "god from the machine," this device involved the use of a mechanical
crane to lower a god or supernatural being onto the stage to resolve a complex or seemingly unsolvable
plot. It was often used to bring about a swift and divine resolution to the conflicts in the play.
8. Ode: Greek plays featured choral odes; lyric poetry sung by the chorus. These odes were often interspersed
between episodes and served various functions, including reflecting on the events, expressing emotions,
and offering moral or philosophical insights.
9. Episodes and Stasimon: The structure of a Greek play consisted of alternating episodes (scenes with
actors) and stasimon (choral odes). Episodes advanced the plot through dialogue, while stasimon provided
commentary and reflection.
10. Catharsis: Aristotle's concept of catharsis refers to the emotional purgation or cleansing experienced by
the audience through the intense emotions elicited by the tragedy. The audience's empathy with the
characters and their tragic fates was believed to lead to a heightened emotional and moral awareness.

These theatrical devices collectively contributed to the unique and ritualistic nature of Greek theater, fostering
a profound and communal experience for the audience.
Are mortals the
playthings of
destiny?
Synopsis of Oedipus Rex

"Oedipus Rex," also known as "Oedipus the King," is a

tragedy written by the ancient Greek playwright Sophocles.
The play is part of a trilogy known as "The Theban Plays,"
and it explores the tragic fate of Oedipus, the king of Thebes.
The story begins with the city of Thebes plagued by a
devastating pestilence, and the citizens beseech Oedipus to
find a solution. Oedipus, determined to save his people,
launches an investigation to uncover the cause of the curse.
As he delves into the mystery, he discovers that he himself is
the unwitting perpetrator of the curse, having fulfilled a
prophecy that foretold he would kill his father and marry his
mother. The realization of his tragic destiny leads to Oedipus's
profound suffering, and the play unfolds as a profound
exploration of fate, free will, and the consequences of one's
actions. In the end, Oedipus blinds himself as a symbolic act
of atonement and accepts the harsh reality of his
circumstances. The play is a classic example of Greek
tragedy, emphasizing the inexorable workings of fate and the
tragic flaws inherent in human nature.
The Moral Dilemmas in Oedipus Rex
"Oedipus Rex" is rich with moral dilemmas that drive the tragic unfolding of the
narrative. Some key moral dilemmas in the play include:

The Curse of Patricide and Incest:

Oedipus, unaware of his true parentage, embarks on a mission to rid Thebes of the
plague, only to discover that he himself is the cause of the curse. The moral dilemma
here is twofold: the unwitting fulfillment of the prophecy that he would kill his father
(Laius) and marry his mother (Jocasta), and the subsequent realization of his incestuous
relationship with his own mother.
The Pursuit of Truth vs. Ignorance:
Oedipus is driven by a relentless pursuit of truth and justice to uncover the source of
the plague. However, the more he investigates, the closer he comes to discovering the
painful reality of his own actions. The moral dilemma lies in the tension between the
desire for knowledge and the potential consequences of that knowledge on one's life
and the lives of others.
The Moral Dilemmas in Oedipus Rex
Blindness and Insight:
Oedipus's tragic flaw, his hubris, is revealed in his metaphorical blindness to the truth.
The moral dilemma revolves around the tension between willful ignorance and the
painful awareness of the truth. Oedipus's literal blinding of himself at the end of the play
represents a profound recognition of the consequences of his actions.
Responsibility and Fate:
The question of responsibility is central to the moral dilemma in "Oedipus Rex." While
Oedipus is fated to fulfill a prophecy, the play raises questions about free will and
personal responsibility. Oedipus grapples with whether he is accountable for actions
dictated by fate or whether he could have chosen differently.
The Conflict of Duty and Family Ties:
Antigone, Oedipus's daughter (whose story is further developed in Sophocles's play
"Antigone"), faces her own moral dilemma. In "Antigone," she defies King Creon's decree
to bury her brother, Polynices, and faces the choice between obeying the law of the state
or honoring her familial duty.
The Moral Dilemmas in Oedipus Rex
Blindness and Insight:
Oedipus's tragic flaw, his hubris, is revealed in his metaphorical blindness to the truth.
The moral dilemma revolves around the tension between willful ignorance and the
painful awareness of the truth. Oedipus's literal blinding of himself at the end of the play
represents a profound recognition of the consequences of his actions.
Responsibility and Fate:
The question of responsibility is central to the moral dilemma in "Oedipus Rex." While
Oedipus is fated to fulfill a prophecy, the play raises questions about free will and
personal responsibility. Oedipus grapples with whether he is accountable for actions
dictated by fate or whether he could have chosen differently.
The Conflict of Duty and Family Ties:
Antigone, Oedipus's daughter (whose story is further developed in Sophocles's play
"Antigone"), faces her own moral dilemma. In "Antigone," she defies King Creon's decree
to bury her brother, Polynices, and faces the choice between obeying the law of the state
or honoring her familial duty.
1. How does Oedipus Rex reflect the Greek ideal
concept of predestination?
2. Why did Oedipus blind himself? What could
be the subliminal effect (catharsis) of self-
inflicted punishment?
Striking the
balance
between law
and morality
Synopsis of Antigone
"Antigone" is a tragedy written by the ancient Greek
playwright Sophocles, and it is the third play in the
trilogy known as "The Theban Plays." The story is set
in the aftermath of a brutal civil war in Thebes,
where two brothers, Eteocles and Polynices, have
killed each other in battle. Creon, the new king of
Thebes, decrees that Eteocles, who defended the
city, will be honored with a proper burial, while
Polynices, considered a traitor, will be left unburied
and exposed to the elements. Antigone, the sister of
the fallen brothers, defies Creon's decree and buries
Polynices, adhering to her moral and religious duty.
Creon, rigid in his authority, condemns Antigone to
death for her disobedience. The play unfolds as a
powerful exploration of the conflict between
individual conscience and the law of the state,
examining themes of justice, loyalty, and the
consequences of one's actions. The tragic
consequences of Creon's inflexible rule and
Antigone's unwavering commitment to her principles
make "Antigone" a timeless work that delves into the
complexities of morality and power.
The Supremacy of the Moral Law in
Antigone
• In Sophocles' play "Antigone," the
theme of the supremacy of the moral
law is a central and powerful element.
Antigone, the protagonist, is faced
with a moral dilemma that pits the
divine laws and familial duties against
the decrees of the state. King Creon,
the ruler of Thebes, prohibits the
burial of Polynices, who fought
against the city, as a punishment for
treason. Antigone, however, is
determined to honor her brother and
adhere to the divine law and familial
duty, which she believes take
precedence over human laws.
The Supremacy of the Moral Law
in Antigone
• Antigone's commitment to
the moral law is evident in her
willingness to defy the king's
decree, even at the cost of
her own life. She firmly
believes in the sanctity of
burying the dead and
respecting familial ties, guided
by a higher moral order that
transcends the authority of
the state.
• The clash between Creon and
Antigone represents a
profound exploration of the
tension between individual
conscience and the laws of
the state.
The Supremacy of the Moral Law in
Antigone
• The chorus and other characters in
the play also contribute to the theme
of the supremacy of the moral law,
questioning Creon's rigid stance and
highlighting the consequences of
prioritizing political power over
fundamental moral principles.
• The tragic unfolding of events
underscores the repercussions of
defying the moral order, as both
Antigone and Creon face severe
consequences for their choices.
The Supremacy of the Moral Law in
Antigone
• Ultimately, "Antigone" emphasizes the
enduring significance of moral
principles that are rooted in divine law
and ethical responsibilities. The play
invites the audience to reflect on the
limits of human authority and the
consequences of prioritizing political
expediency over moral considerations.
• Antigone's unwavering commitment to
the moral law serves as a powerful
reminder of the enduring strength and
consequences of moral convictions in
the face of societal and political
pressures.
1. Reflect on “the
law maybe harsh,
but it is the law.
2. As Christian
believers, explain
how the law can
be liberating.
Base your answer
on Exodus 20:1-
2.