The Chorus and the Body:

Contexts for Physical Theatre Training in Antiquity and Today

You’ll find below my graduate thesis on Greek Theatre and the social position of the chorus:

Abstract

This essay analyzes the civic and cultural role of the tragic chorus in the ‘Golden Age’ of Athenian theatre, from the late sixth to the late fifth century BCE. Of particular interest to this essay is the specialized social class of those who danced the tragic chorus—the ephebes: young soldiers-in-training. The essay examines how the collective approach of Athenian theatre training reflects broader political and social trends in fifth century Athenian life. The author uses this lens to investigate the contemporary push for ensemble theatre under the umbrella of physical theatre training and performance. The current shift in theatre training reflects a civic and social change; various aspects of this shift, including its relationship to the ancient chorus, are investigated at the conclusion of this essay.