What Is the Chorus in Greek Theatre?

Greek Theatre|Theater

The chorus in Greek theatre was a group of up to 15 actors that were dressed in costumes and sang and danced in unison. The chorus was an integral part of the theatre experience, providing a commentary on the action taking place onstage. The chorus often provided a moral lesson or insight into the characters’ motivations, as well as essential information about the plot.

The chorus was usually composed of men and boys, but there were some female-only choruses in Greek tragedy. The actors wore costumes with long robes, masks, and headgear that gave them an otherworldly appearance.

The masks were made of cork or linen with human features painted on them. They also wore sandals or buskins – shoes with leather soles that went up to the knee – to add height to their presence onstage.

The chorus members recited passages from plays in unison – usually sung rather than spoken – that provided background information about the story and characters. They also commented on events taking place onstage, often offering advice or moral guidance for the characters. In some plays, they took part in scenes with other characters, such as questioning them or helping them make decisions.

The most famous example of a chorus is found in Greek tragedy: Aeschylus’ Oresteia trilogy, which consists of Agamemnon, The Libation Bearers, and The Eumenides. In this play cycle the chorus follows Agamemnon’s family throughout their tragic journey and offers insight into their motivations and emotions.

The chorus has been used by playwrights throughout history; modern-day examples include Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and Tennessee Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire. Today, choruses are still used in professional theatrical productions as well as by amateur theatres around the world.

In conclusion, what is the Chorus in Greek Theatre? It is a group of up to 15 actors dressed in costume who sing and dance together to provide commentary on what is happening onstage during a play performance such as providing essential information about plot points or giving moral advice for characters and spectators alike. It is an ancient tradition that has been seen throughout history from Aeschylus’ Oresteia trilogy to modern day theatre productions like Romeo & Juliet or A Streetcar Named Desire