Aeschylus

General view of sanctuary of Demeter and Kore and the Telesterion (Initiation Hall), center for the Eleusinian Mysteries, Eleusis (8191841684)

File:Death of Aeschylus in Florentine Picture Chronicle.jpg

Death of Aeschylus in Florentine Picture Chronicle

Athen Theatre of Dionysus BW 2017-10-09 14-29-49

Tragediae septem

Dariuslarge

Danaïdes tuant leurs maris BnF Français 874 fol. 170v

Aeschylus (c. 525/524 – c. 456/455 BC) was an ancient Greek tragedian. He is often described as the father of tragedy. According to Aristotle, he expanded the number of characters in theater to allow for conflict among them; previously, characters interacted only with the chorus.

Life

Aeschylus was born in Eleusis, a small town about 27 kilometers northwest of Athens. His family was wealthy and well-established. He participated in the Battle of Marathon in 490 BC and possibly the Battle of Salamis in 480 BC. His epitaph commemorates his participation in the Battle of Marathon, but makes no mention of his success as a playwright.

Works

Aeschylus wrote approximately 70 to 90 plays, but only seven have survived intact:

• The Persians
• Seven Against Thebes
• The Suppliants
• The Oresteia (a trilogy consisting of Agamemnon, The Libation Bearers, and The Eumenides)
• Prometheus Bound (attributed to Aeschylus, though its authorship is disputed)

The Oresteia

The Oresteia is Aeschylus's most famous work and the only complete trilogy of Greek tragedies that has survived. It deals with the end of the curse on the House of Atreus.

Influence

Aeschylus's work has had a profound influence on the development of drama. He is credited with introducing the second actor, which allowed for greater dramatic dialogue. His innovations in stagecraft and use of the chorus set the foundation for future playwrights like Sophocles and Euripides.

Legacy

Aeschylus's influence extends beyond the realm of theater. His works have been studied for their literary and historical significance. Modern adaptations and performances of his plays continue to be staged around the world.

Related Pages

• Greek Tragedy
• Sophocles
• Euripides
• Aristophanes
• Ancient Greek Theatre
• Battle of Marathon
• Battle of Salamis