Greek theater

Greek theater originated in ancient Greece around the 6th century BCE, primarily as a form of religious ritual honoring Dionysus. It featured large open-air amphitheaters and was characterized by tragedy and comedy plays performed by actors wearing masks. Playwrights like Sophocles and Euripides explored complex themes such as fate, morality, and human suffering. The theater was both entertainment and a public forum for discussing societal issues, with performances often tied to festivals. Greek theater's innovations in storytelling, staging, and character development profoundly influenced Western drama and theatrical traditions.