Ancient Theatre: Theatrical Space and Scenography

Course Code
34ΤΧ030
ECTS Credits
5
Semester
Semester 5 or 7
Course Category
Specialization
Performing Arts
Professor
Course Description

Course Objectives: 

The aim of the course is to introduce students to the theatrical space of the ancient Greek theatre, with emphasis on the orchestra, the stage building and the painted scenery that decorated it. To this end, they selectively examine surviving texts and analyse archaeological data from a variety of excavated theatres.

Upon successful completion of the course students will: 

•    Understand the different meanings defined by the term "scenography" then and now.
•    Recognize and describe in architectural terms the different types of skene (scene-building) shown in classical, Hellenistic and Roman periods.

•    Date each type of skene on the basis of its architectural features. 
•    Recognize the different types of painted backdrops and stage properties used in the ancient theatre. 
•    Τransfer their knowledge towards the revival of an ancient drama.
•    Finally, they will have acquired a basic knowledge of ancient Greek painting.

Semester Courses