Asher. Period 4. Team 5 Greek/Roman Synthesis Question

Theatre, back in ancient Greek society, was a gathering place where people would crowd to see fascinating plays, specifically the popular tragedies. During the fall of the Ancient Greek government, however, comedies reigned. This social event brought thousands of viewers to experience the play’s morals and styles of the era. The chorus, as an important part of the play, purposely gave the audience further background information, frequently introducing scientific thoughts that were developed through the plot. Ancient Greek Theatre commonly included the themes of fate, religious faith, punishment, and love, as well as several others. They also portrayed a hero’s epic journey that showcased the character’s growth and deepened their knowledge. For example, the Cyclops, a side story in the Odyssey, includes the moral of courage of mankind but also an arrogance aspect. After Odysseus enters the Cyclops’ cave, he uses his cleverness and courage to help him escape, along with his crew, out of the cave and get back safely on board. However, when they’re about to sail away to their homeland, Odysseus yells at the Cyclops and angered the giant. Unfortunately for Odysseus, Zues heard the Cyclops’ plea and punished Odysseus. Due to Odysseus’ arrogance, he and his crew members ended being blown away towards the opposite direction from home, while the god of sea adds on the burden even more. The symbolism of the natural forces is to show how mankind cannot change one’s predetermined destiny. Thus, the Cyclops educates the audience of that time period’s religion, moral and aesthetics values. (254 words)

By: Sara Jan, Lia Lohr, Joanna Tung, and Tiffany Yin