Greek Comedy Essay by Research Group

This paper briefly discusses the origins of the Greek theatre and how Greek comedy was distinctive in Athens and became an official part of the Dionysian festivals about 50 years after tragedy did. It looks at how Greek comedy is represented by Aristophanes, the only playwright from the period of Old Greek Comedy whose works survive. It shows how Aristophanes' works were satires directed at specific people in Athenian society. He attacked many political figures in his plays, but he also directed attacks at other cultural figures in Athenian society. It also analyzes how Aristophanes satire was carried in to the Roman era by the works of Plautus.