Aeschylus (c. 525–456 BCE) Flashcards
Who is Aeschylus often referred to as?
The father of tragedy.
When was Aeschylus born?
Around 525/524 BCE.
What innovation in theater is Aeschylus credited with?
Adding a second actor to plays, allowing for dialogue and more complex interactions.
How many of Aeschylus’ plays have survived?
Seven plays have survived.
Name one of Aeschylus’ most famous works that is a trilogy.
The Oresteia.
Which battle, in which Aeschylus fought, is believed to have inspired his work?
The Battle of Marathon.
In which play did Aeschylus base his story on contemporary events rather than mythology?
The Persians.
Which war greatly influenced Aeschylus’ life and work?
The Greco-Persian Wars.
What did Aeschylus’ innovations in theater contribute to Greek drama?
They allowed for more intricate narratives and deeper emotional engagement.
How did Aeschylus’ work influence later playwrights like Sophocles and Euripides?
He laid the foundation for the development of Greek tragedy with his innovations in structure and character development.
What moral and philosophical themes are common in Aeschylus’ plays?
Justice, revenge, fate, and the will of the gods.
How is Aeschylus remembered today?
As the father of tragedy and one of the most important figures in Western theater.
What major innovation did Aeschylus introduce to Greek drama?
The introduction of multiple actors, which allowed for dramatic dialogue.
Which trilogy by Aeschylus deals with themes of justice and revenge?
The Oresteia.
How did Aeschylus likely die, according to legend?
He was allegedly killed by a tortoise dropped by an eagle.
