Greek Theater vs. Roman Theater
The time has come to discuss the similarities and differences between Greek and Roman theater! We have visited both places, and both were amazing and fascinating to learn about. I hope you were paying attention!
The Comedies
Greek Old Comedy became Roman New Comedy. This meant that it is no longer myths and there is no longer a chorus. They didn't deal with political issues either. Instead, they depicted the trials and tribulations of Romance. We talked a little bit about Greek New Comedy. Roman New Comedy is based off of Greek New Comedy. This, the Comedies between Greece and Rome are both very different as well as similar.
The Theatrics
Romans are not considered great inventors of drama because most of their theater was based on Greek theater. Romans were also famous for their risque mime performances. They enjoyed sexually provocative drama, unlike the Greeks who were famous for their religious Theater. Interesting jump, huh. Region to sex.
The Pantomime
Another uniquely Roman thing is the Pantomime, which was like a ballet, which required a single dancer, a chorus, and music. This was a complete contrast to everything Greek. The actors did not speak on the stage, but acted using gestures that resembles what we know to be a ballet. Mythological love stories were the favorite pantomimes in Roman theater.
The Theater
The Romans simply redesigned the Greek theaters. When Plautus and other playwrights of the time put on a show, temporary wooden theaters were constructed. In fact, it was illegal to build permanent theaters in Rome for a time. It wasn't until 55 B.C. Pompey the Great lifted the ban and theaters began to be built.
The Design
Roman theaters are similar to Greek theaters in the fact that they have the same three units. The orchestra pit, seating for the audience, and the scene house. However, Rome developed BIGGER stages, and had new techniques that allowed them to NOT have to build on a hill side. They were able to construct free standing theaters.
The Orchestra Pit
The Roman orchestra pit also differed from the Greek's. The Roman pit was a semi-circle rather than a circle. Although this isn't a major difference, it a difference. Perhaps it is built like this because of the free standing walls, not the hillside.
The Curtain
The Roman's also introduced the CURTAIN! What would theater be like today if there was no curtain? In Rome there were two types. One that was in front and masked the actors before they came on stage. It was not the entire length of the stage. That would have been too big. The second was in the back. What a great invention that we still use today!
The Theater House
The theater wall along the back of the theater, the scaena, is also unique to Rome. It could be two to three stories hight. It housed costumes and scenery. It had pillars and statues and three to five entrances. It also had a roof that enclosed the stage and protected the actors from the elements.
