Aeschylus
Aeschylus was one of the three great tragedians of Ancient Greece, alongside Sophocles and Euripides. Known as the "Father of Tragedy," his work marks the beginning of a golden age in Greek drama. Here are some key points about his life and contributions:
Life
- Birth: Aeschylus was born around 525/524 BCE in Eleusis, a small town northwest of Athens.
- Death: He died in 456/455 BCE at Gela in Sicily. Legend states he was killed by a tortoise dropped by an eagle, which mistook his bald head for a rock.
- Family: His father was Euphorion, a member of the Eupatridae, the noble class of Attica. Aeschylus had two sons, Euaeon and Euphorion, who both became tragic poets.
- Military Service: Aeschylus fought in several battles, including the Battle of Marathon and possibly at Salamis. His military service is proudly mentioned in his epitaph, highlighting his valor rather than his literary achievements.
Works
- Surviving Plays: Only seven of his estimated 70-90 plays have survived:
- Innovations: Aeschylus is credited with introducing a second actor into the drama, allowing for more complex dialogue and conflict. He also increased the size of the chorus from twelve to fifteen members, enriching the choral songs and dances.
- Themes: His plays often explored themes of justice, the nature of the gods, and the consequences of human hubris. The Oresteia particularly deals with the transition from a cycle of vengeance to the establishment of civic justice.
Legacy
- Influence: Aeschylus's innovations in drama had a lasting impact on Western theatre. His exploration of moral and philosophical questions influenced later playwrights and philosophers.
- Literary Style: His style was grandiose, employing rich imagery and complex choral odes, which reflected the grandeur of the human condition and the divine.
- Recognition: Aeschylus was highly honored in his lifetime, winning first prize in the City Dionysia multiple times.
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