Theater in Ancient Rome and Greece

How did Alexander the Great contribute to the spread of Greek theatrical tradition?

• By writing new plays that combined Greek and Persian styles.

• By conquering lands and introducing Greek culture, including theater, to them.

• By funding new theater festivals in Athens.

• By establishing a school for actors and playwrights.

How did Greek comedy change after the Peloponnesian War?

• Plays became more focused on political satire and criticizing rulers by name.

• Plays became less explicit and featured more general characters, with reduced chorus size.

• Tragedies replaced comedies as the dominant form of theater.

• Actors were no longer allowed to perform in public.

Which of the following best describes the characteristics of New Comedy?

• It was highly absurd and featured explicit political criticism.

• It focused on grand mythological themes and heroic figures.

• It was less absurd and obscene, focusing on realistic situations and everyday characters.

• It involved elaborate dance routines and musical medleys without dialogue.

According to the historian Livy, what was the initial stage of Roman theater?

• Comedies with complex storylines and songs.

• Obscene improvisational verse and dances.

• Dances performed to flute music.

• Atellan Farce with stock characters.

What were "Fabula Palliata" plays primarily known for?

• Being original Roman stories about Roman heroes.

• Being adaptations of Greek plays with Greek characters and settings.

• Featuring unique Roman costumes and masks.

• Being performed only in Greek.

When were theatrical performances first added to the Ludi Romani?

• In the late 6th century BCE by Tarquin.

• After a terrible plague in the mid-5th century BCE.

• Formally in 240 BCE by Livius Andronicus.

• In 55 BCE with the building of the first permanent theater.

What was the social standing of actors in ancient Rome?

• They were highly respected citizens with political rights.

• They were considered professionals but had limited civic rights.

• They were often slaves or freedmen with low social status.

• They were celebrated artists, similar to Greek actors.

What kind of entertainment often competed with plays for the attention of Roman audiences?

• Philosophical debates and poetry readings.

• Athletic competitions and musical concerts.

• Sea battles, gladiatorial contests, and acrobatic shows.

• Religious ceremonies and public speeches.