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Evolution of Drama In contrast to modern drama, Greek drama is quite simple by structure. It consists of prologue (usually spoken by the actors before the chorus appears), paradox (chorus singing), first episode and first station (a choral ode). There may be several episodes and stations. The final scene is called exodus, where the chorus sings a processional song. Modern drama can have either simple or compound structure. Greek drama was usually performed in outdoor theatres, whereas Shakespearean drama (as well as the modern one) could be performed both in indoor and outdoor theaters.
Both Greek and Shakespearean dramas were performed by male actors. In contrast to modern drama, no women were allowed playing the roles. Greek drama implied fixed quantity of actors (three actors), while Shakespearian and modern drama may use unlimited quantity of actors. Greek and Shakespearian actors used masks.
Greek drama was staged for special occasions. It was performed in the Athens, where the plays were competitive (prize awarded). In contrast to Greek, modern drama is used predominantly for the entertainment; however, sometimes it may be used for religious or educational purposes (Arms and the Man, An Ideal Husband, Misalliance). Basically drama is driven by a certain conflict. It is an action.
Greek Drama was closely associated with religion (stories based on history or myths) (Oedipus Tyrannos, Oedipus at Colour, Antigone), while Shakespearean drama implied mystery, morality and historical plays about the lives of legendary heroes and kings (themes: the universe, supernatural, religion, problem days, etc. ). Modern drama may dwell on different themes (modern problems along with religion, history, etc. ). There were three basic styles of Greek Drama: tragedy, comedy and satyrs. Shakespearean drama styles included comedy, history, and tragedy whereas the modern drama uses different styles, depending on the playwrights intention. Greek drama used songs, speeches and recitatives, whereas Shakespearean drama used parallelism, repetition and rhetorical questions, dramatic irony. It used verse for the most important characters to make them more heroic (Julius Caesar), evil, etc. , and prose to make the play funnier.
Modern drama masterly combines all features.
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Research essay sample on Greek Drama Modern Drama
