In this portfolio you will be creating a timeline starting with Classical Greece and ending with Romanticism of the late 1800's.
You will highlight a minimum of 2 important dates per time period (Greeks, Romans, Medieval, Asian Theatre (China & Japan), Shakespeare/Renaissance, and the Romantics/Restoration); this is a minimum of 14 total dates. Dates are your choice, but should reflect pivotal moments in the history of theatre such as festivals, playwrights, plays, historical events (wars, etc), and/or anything else that has impacted the theatre over time.
Timelines should include:
1. Minimum of 2 important dates per theatrical time period (14 total)
2. A minimum of 1 picture for each date that is reflective of that date
3. A brief explanation of each date (3-5 complete sentences) that highlight why the date chosen was important to the history of theatre.
4. A brief personal summary explaining what you have learned and why you chose the dates you chose (approximately 1/2 to 1 page double spaced)
5. Timeline should be well organized and visually appealing. The more creative the better.
Classical Greece:
1. 534 BC - The Great Dionysia festival is established in Athens, where playwrights would compete in dramatic competitions. This festival played a significant role in the development of Greek theatre, showcasing the works of famous playwrights such as Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides.
- The picture shows a scene from a Greek tragedy performed during the Great Dionysia festival.
2. 429 BC - Sophocles' play "Oedipus Rex" is first performed in Athens. This tragedy is considered one of the greatest works of Greek theatre, exploring themes of fate, free will, and the complexities of human nature.
- The picture depicts an ancient Greek theatre where "Oedipus Rex" may have been performed.
Roman:
1. 240 BC - The first recorded Roman play, "Ludi Romani," is staged. Roman theatre was heavily influenced by Greek theatre, but also incorporated elements of Roman culture and traditions, such as satire and farce.
- The picture shows a Roman theatre where "Ludi Romani" may have been performed.
2. 55 BC - Marcus Pacuvius, a Roman tragedian, adapts Greek tragedies for Roman audiences. His work helped to popularize theatre in Rome and establish a unique Roman theatrical tradition.
- The picture features a statue of Marcus Pacuvius, honoring his contributions to Roman theatre.
Medieval:
1. 1392 - The first recorded performance of a medieval morality play, "The Castle of Perseverance," takes place in England. Morality plays were a popular form of theatre during the Middle Ages, using allegorical characters to teach moral lessons.
- The picture shows actors performing a scene from a medieval morality play.
2. 1475 - The advent of printing presses in Europe allows for the mass production of play scripts, making theatre more accessible to a wider audience. This technological advancement marks a significant development in the dissemination of theatrical works.
- The picture depicts a printing press in medieval Europe, highlighting the impact of this innovation on the theatre.
Asian Theatre (China & Japan):
1. 711 - The first recorded Noh performance takes place in Japan, combining elements of dance, music, and drama. Noh theatre is known for its highly stylized performances and symbolic storytelling.
- The picture shows actors performing a traditional Noh play on a Noh stage.
2. 17th century - Kunqu opera is developed in China, blending singing, dancing, and acting in a highly elegant and refined form of theatre. Kunqu opera became one of the most influential forms of Chinese theatre.
- The picture showcases actors dressed in elaborate costumes for a Kunqu opera performance.
Shakespeare/Renaissance:
1. 1599 - The Globe Theatre opens in London, becoming the home of William Shakespeare's plays. The Globe was a popular venue for Elizabethan theatre, hosting many of Shakespeare's most famous works.
- The picture shows a reconstruction of the Globe Theatre, capturing the essence of Elizabethan theatre.
2. 1606 - Shakespeare's tragedy "Macbeth" is first performed at the Globe Theatre. This play is one of Shakespeare's darkest works, exploring themes of ambition, betrayal, and the consequences of unchecked power.
- The picture depicts a scene from a performance of "Macbeth" at the Globe Theatre.
Romantics/Restoration:
1. 1660 - The Restoration of the English monarchy leads to the reopening of theatres in England and the revival of public stage productions. This period marked a significant shift in English theatre, introducing new styles and genres.
- The picture shows a poster advertising a play at a restored English theatre during this period.
2. 1827 - The first performance of Victor Hugo's play "Hernani" in France sparks controversy and riots due to its departure from classical French drama. "Hernani" is considered a seminal work of Romantic theatre, challenging traditional theatrical conventions.
- The picture features a scene from "Hernani" where the audience reacts with mixed emotions during the performance.
Personal Summary:
Through creating this timeline, I have learned about the rich and diverse history of theatre, from its origins in Classical Greece to its development in Rome, Europe, and Asia. Each date chosen represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of theatre, showcasing the creativity, innovation, and cultural significance of the performing arts. I chose these dates because they illustrate the interconnectedness of theatrical traditions across different time periods and regions, highlighting the enduring impact of theatre on society and culture. Overall, this project has deepened my appreciation for the art form and its timeless relevance in human storytelling.