Arschylus Fact Files

Question 1

What were Aeschylus’ dates active ?

Answer 1

525-456

Question 2

Estimated plays produced ?

Answer 2

8 plays in total

Question 3

Existing plays ?

Answer 3

6 out of the 8 plays remain

Question 4

What are some of Aeschylus notable works ?

Answer 4

The Orestia, a trilogy from 458 ( Agamemnon, Choephoroi and Eumenides)

Question 5

What are some significant stylist features ?

Answer 5

• introduced a second actor into stage: radical development but could be a tendency of Greeks to find an inventor
• later introduced a third actor
• connects groups of theee or four plays seem to be highly conventional of Aeschylus which did allow for a development of themes and imagery in a greater level of sophistication
• makes great use of Christ ranging from 15-55% which is far greater than the other two plays

Question 6

What are some biographical facts ?

Answer 6

• trained and choreographed the chorus as well as acting in the plays themselves
• lived through a time of great change with Athens growing from unimportant city to being the leader of a powerful empire
• lived through the Persian war 499-479
• likely fought in the war at Marathon

Question 7

Other information ?

Answer 7

Played an important role in shaping theatre as we know it as a second actor opened up the possibility for dialogue