The Greek Drama

Where were Greek plays performed?

The very first plays were performed in the Theatre of Dionysus. This theatre was actually built in the shadow of Acropolis in Athens. It was built at the beginning of the 5th century. Continue learning about the beginning of theatre by reading "The Origins of the Theatre-The First Plays."

Next Watch the video below to learn more about the Origins of Greek Drama.

Thespis, Athens, and The Origins of Greek DramaLinks to an external site.: Crash Course Youtube

The Shakespearian Drama

Where did they perform Shakespeare's Plays?

The Globe Theater was a theater in London that we associate with Shakespeare's plays. The Globe Theatre was built in 1599 by Shakespeare's play company. The playing company was called the Lord Chamberlain's Men. To learn more about the Globe Theater view the following websites:

• Britannica online explaining The Globe Theatre.
• Elizabethan Theatres.
• Watch this video or read this manuscript on the history of Globe Theatre.

Can you spot any differences?

There are obviously some differences between Classical Greek Dramas and Shakespearian Dramas. Review this slide show to see the difference between Greek Tragedy and Shakespearean Tragedy. This slide show will give you a clearer understanding of all the ways Greek and Shakespearian Dramas differ from one another. You will need to use information from this slide show and this Learning Activity to accomplish your next Task, Spotting the Difference.

After reading everything from this Learning Activity, go to the next module, Task 2: Spotting the Difference, to complete your assignment that accompanies this reading.