In many ways the Greeks and Romans can be compared and contrasted, one being theatrics.
Theatrus–theater in Latin–in both ancient Greece and Rome involved dancing, singing, and other forms of entertainment that kept a consistently large audience. Seeing as much of Roman culture is inspired by the Greeks, the structural design of their theaters can also be rooted to their precedents. Of course, due to chronological and institutional differences, some contrasting elements are stark among both cultures’ theatrics.
Both the Greeks and Romans used the amphitheater for plays–a semi-circular structure that could host thousands of spectators at a time. Their amphitheaters similarly boasted multiple structures: both had a pulpitum magnum on which actors entertained the audience, as well as an orchestra that played thematic songs. However, while the Greeks carved the amphitheaters into wide hills, Roman amphitheaters were temporary structures built from less sturdy and lasting materials, like wood. They were typically put up only for religious and national holidays, meanwhile, Greek stone amphitheaters still stand to this day.
The themes introduced in both theatrics are strikingly contrasting. The Greeks saw theater as a paramount branch of their culture–it was, to many, a necessary part of society. Greek plays, some written by notable playwrights such as Euripedes and Aeschylus, had religious and artistic symbolism. Actors acted out tales of war, everyday life, and of lust. Meanwhile, the Romans valued less philosophical themes, and preferred comoedias, or comedies, much over tragoedias, or tragedies. It was more for spectacular entertainment, and often involved exaggerated amounts of bloodshed and violence. Though their subjects contrasted in depth, the Romans borrowed costume styles from the Greeks, such as color-coded costumes, customized masks, and props.
Lastly, the reception to Greek versus Roman shows differed. It was stated earlier that Greek theater was treated as a necessity, and this is true. During the Golden Age of Greece, thousands would travel from various cities to visit Athenian amphitheaters. Officials believed that theater was important to preserve culture and religious mythology. The Roman administration would try to separate Roman theater from their precedents as much as possible, for they feared tragedies would corrupt citizens and diverge them from Greek influences. The audience in Rome were always rowdy and hostile towards actors, often throwing things on stage and drowning out the lines with their own voice.
Seriously, how good is this painting for its time?
Though the differences are stark amongst the two, both the Romans and the Greeks founded a theater culture that would influence later generations and eras. Exceptional playwrights like Shakespeare and Molière would pay homage to them by including Greek mythology and Roman history in their plays. As European arts and industry evolved, crowds would become much more receptive to theater, too.
