TED-ED: The battle of the Greek tragedies - Melanie Sirof

The video takes us to ancient Greece, where a dramatic festival unfolds. Thespis steps out as the first actor, revolutionizing theater. Aeschylus builds on this by adding a second actor, while Sophocles introduces a third in his play Oedipus Rex. Despite these innovations, Philocles wins the competition. The festival showcases the evolution of tragedy and its lasting impact on modern theater.

What is the main focus of the competition in ancient Greece?

• To find the best dancer

• To showcase the best musical performance

• To see whose hero is the most tragic

• To determine the best comedic playwright

Who is credited with being the first actor in Greek theater?

• Philocles

• Thespis

• Sophocles

• Aeschylus

What significant change did Aeschylus introduce to Greek theater?

• He reduced the size of the chorus

• He added a third actor

• He used elaborate stage props

• He introduced musical interludes

How did Sophocles innovate Greek theater during the competition?

• By adding a third actor

• By introducing a female lead

• By using a rotating stage

• By incorporating dance routines

What is the central theme of the play Oedipus Rex?

• A tragic love story

• A comedic misunderstanding

• A king's struggle with his destiny

• A hero's journey to find treasure

What unexpected event occurred at the end of the competition?

• The competition was canceled

• Aeschylus was disqualified

• Sophocles won the first prize

• Philocles won the first prize

What feeling does a great tragedy aim to evoke in the audience?

• Renewal and cleansing

• Joy and happiness

• Fear and anxiety

• Confusion and chaos