Comedy as a Genre Flashcards
What is the origin of the term ‘comedy’ in Greek?
‘Komodia’, meaning ‘the song of the komos’
‘Komos’ refers to a festive procession in honor of Dionysus, which included singing and dancing.
What key element was central to the festivals of Dionysus?
The komos
The komos involved men celebrating with wine, song, and dance in honor of Dionysus.
Which symbol was prominently featured during the komos?
The human phallus
Revellers would hold leather phalluses as a symbol of thanks to Dionysus.
What does the phallus symbolize in relation to Dionysus?
Life force and the ability to bring new life
The phallus was a significant symbol in Greek comedies, often seen in costumes.
Which playwright is most associated with fifth-century comedy?
Aristophanes
He lived between c.450 and 386, and his works are the only ones from this period that have survived.
What notable works did Cratinus produce?
Twenty-four known titles of plays
Cratinus was active between c.454 and 423.
Who was Eupolis and what was his significance?
A friend and rival of Aristophanes, known for fifteen titles of plays
He was successful, winning at the City Dionysia and Lenaea.
How many members were typically in a comic chorus?
Twenty-four members
In contrast, tragedy typically had twelve or fifteen members in its chorus.
What was a notable difference in the costumes of comedy compared to tragedy?
Comedic costumes were designed to look ridiculous
Tragic costumes were dignified and sombre.
What is a key feature of comic actors’ costumes?
Thick padding and oversized leather phallus
This allowed for physical humor and slapstick in performances.
What is ‘parabasis’ in the context of Greek comedy?
A moment when actors acknowledge the audience
The chorus-leader may address the audience on topics unrelated to the play’s plot.
What topics could the parabasis address?
The playwright’s career or current affairs
Examples include discussions on the status and treatment of women in Athens.