Chorus

Definition

In the context of Greek tragedy, a chorus is a group of performers who comment on the action of the play, often through song and dance. The chorus serves multiple functions, including providing background information, reflecting on themes, and engaging with the audience's emotions. This group typically represents the voice of the community or society, giving insight into moral and ethical implications of the characters' actions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The chorus originally consisted of 12 to 15 members in early Greek tragedies but later expanded to up to 50 in some plays.
2. Choruses in Greek tragedies often represented different societal groups, such as elders, women, or soldiers, providing diverse perspectives on the events unfolding in the drama.
3. The chorus not only commented on the action but also engaged in lyrical dialogue with the characters, enhancing emotional depth and thematic development.
4. Choruses performed various types of odes throughout the play, including parodos (entrance ode), stasimon (odes between episodes), and exodus (final ode).
5. The use of a chorus allowed playwrights like Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides to explore complex themes such as fate, morality, and human suffering in their works.

Review Questions

• How does the chorus contribute to character development and thematic exploration in Greek tragedy?
  • The chorus plays a crucial role in character development by providing commentary and insights into characters' motivations and actions. Through their songs and dialogues, they highlight key themes and moral questions, guiding the audience's understanding of the unfolding drama. This interaction helps to deepen emotional engagement while also reflecting societal norms and values pertinent to the characters' struggles.
• Analyze how the structure and functions of the chorus evolved over time in Greek tragedy.
  • Initially, the chorus was a central element of Greek tragedy that provided commentary and context. As theatrical practices evolved, playwrights began to experiment with the size and function of the chorus. By incorporating more elaborate odes and developing its relationship with characters, playwrights were able to enhance dramatic tension and explore complex emotional landscapes. The evolution of the chorus showcases shifts in artistic expression within Greek theatre and its growing focus on individual characters alongside collective commentary.
• Evaluate the significance of the chorus in shaping audience perception and response during a Greek tragedy performance.
  • The chorus plays a vital role in shaping audience perception by acting as a bridge between the characters and spectators. Their reflections on events offer moral guidance while prompting viewers to consider broader societal implications. This engagement encourages audiences to empathize with both characters' struggles and the collective voice of society. Ultimately, this dynamic enriches the viewing experience by inviting contemplation on ethical dilemmas presented in the narrative.

Related terms

Strophe:

The first part of a choral ode in Greek tragedy, during which the chorus moves from one side of the stage to the other while singing.

Antistrophe: The response to the strophe in a choral ode, where the chorus moves back to its original position while singing.

Agon: A contest or debate between characters in Greek drama that often highlights key themes and conflicts within the play.