Interpreting the Evidence
Theater of Dionysus, Athens, Greece, n.d.
Suggested Teaching Instructions
Document Description
A photograph of the Theater of Dionysus, Athens, Greece, n.d.
Historical Context
Greek theaters were open-air and built into hillsides. The Theater of Dionysus was the world’s first theater. Plays in Athens were performed in the agora (marketplace) until a spectator got hurt; then a site on the southern side of the Acropolis was chosen for the theater.
The Theater of Dionysus was originally built to honor the god Dionysus. The stage building, which had scenery in the background, and the benches were first constructed of wood in the fifth century BCE. The orchestra was actually a circular area meant for singing and dancing. In the early theater, it was made of dirt. The theater was later rebuilt in stone and could hold an audience of up to 17,000 people.
The seats for the audience were in rows up the side of the hill. Sets of stairs separated the seats into different sections, making it easier for such large crowds to come and go.
The Theater of Dionysus was originally built to honor the god Dionysus. The stage building, which had scenery in the background, and the benches were first constructed of wood in the fifth century BCE. The orchestra was actually a circular area meant for singing and dancing. In the early theater, it was made of dirt. The theater was later rebuilt in stone and could hold an audience of up to 17,000 people.
The seats for the audience were in rows up the side of the hill. Sets of stairs separated the seats into different sections, making it easier for such large crowds to come and go.
Essential Question
What role does culture play in the development of a society?
Check for Understanding
Describe the scene in the photograph and evaluate the importance of cultural activities in Greek society.
Historical Challenges
Write a play to dramatize a Greek myth. Remember that most Greek plays involved telling the story of a hero.
Interdisciplinary Connections
Math: Using the scale found on the plan of the Acropolis, determine how far it was between the Theater of Dionysius and the Parthenon, or the Cave of Apollo.
Science: Explain how levers might have been used to build this theater.
English Language Arts: Find a student version of a Greek play, assign different roles, and perform it. Other students could make the scenery.