Greek Tragedy Rules and Structure

Overview

This lecture covers Aristotle's six rules for tragedy in ancient Greek theater and explains the basic structure (format) of Greek plays.

Aristotle set rules for tragedy in a work called the Poetics, influencing the format of Greek plays.
The tragedy must provide a catharsis, meaning a spiritual purge of emotions for the audience.
The hero should be of high social standing (e.g., king, god) and possess a tragic flaw leading to their downfall.
There must be a change in fortune or reversal, moving the hero from ignorance to knowledge.
Plays should be written in the highest form of poetry, often as song or poetic dialogue.
The plot must follow three unities: unity of action (one main story), unity of time (events in 24 hours), and unity of place (one location).
Many modern plays do not follow the unities of time, place, or require a high-standing hero.

Greek plays followed a four-part structure, known as the Greek theater form.
The prologue introduces the play, usually as a voiceover, setting up the action.
The parados is when the chorus enters, providing background information (exposition) through song or chant.
The episodeion alternates spoken dialogue by actors with songs or chants from the chorus.
The exodus is the final part, where a song concludes the play and the chorus exits.

Catharsis — Emotional or spiritual cleansing experienced by the audience during a tragedy.
Tragic Flaw — A key character weakness or error in judgment leading to the hero’s downfall.
Three Unities — Aristotle’s guidelines: unity of action (one plot), unity of time (within 24 hours), unity of place (single location).
Prologue — The introduction to a Greek play, usually delivered by a voiceover.
Parados — The entering song or chant by the chorus, giving exposition.
Episodeion — The main section of dialogue, alternating with chorus chants or songs.
Exodus — The final song that ends the play and leads the chorus offstage.
Poetics — Aristotle’s written work outlining rules for tragedy and poetry.