Greek Theatre Masks

Most original Greek theatre masks were made out of _______, which is why they did not survive the past 2500 years

• Parian Marble

• Papier Mache

• Stiffened Linen

• Macaroni

So how do we know, after 2,500 years, what Greek theatre masks actually looked like? (2 correct answers)

• A few models of the masks made of tougher materials like terra cotta or stone survived.

• Two words: time travel

• They were featured in other art works from the classical period such as wall-paintings and mosaics

• Photography was invented in Ancient Greece

What character would this particular mask most likely represent?

• A child

• William Shakespear

• St. Nicholas

• An old man

was this mask most likely meant for comedy or for tragedy?

• Comedy

• Tragedy

According to the article, how were masks made for tragedies different from those made for comedies?

• Their features were more exaggerated to the point of being grotesque.

• They were entirely featureless because the actors had to mime and make loud noises while wearing them.

• Their features were more idealized and their expressions were more serious.

• Masks weren't worn for tragedies in Ancient Greece; the actors showed their faces because it was a more serious genre.

True or false: theatre was open to men, women, and also children in Ancient Greece

• False- the actors were all male

• True- the ancient Greeks were an egalitarian society

Which ancient Greek god were plays associated with?

• Apollo, god of the sun and of music

• Athena, goddess of war and of wisdom

• Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty

• Dionysus, god of wine

In which Greek city-state was theatre first invented?

• Athens

• Sparta

• Cyrene

• Dalmatia

In which month were theatre festivals typically held?

• October

• January

• March

• May

About how many people were in attendance for theatrical events?

• About 500

• About 15,000,000

• About 15,000

• Only 50- They were exclusive events only open to the elite members of Greek society