George W Harper

Three Plays in a Greek Motif George W Harper

More than 2,500 years ago the Athenians perfected the art of drama. The fact it was strictly al fresco was a handicap but these ancient Greeks possessed imagination? a commodity which is sadly lacking in our modern world, Where everything has to be spelled out in graphic detail and nothing is left to the imagination. Among the results of this dramatic presentation were such plays are Oedipus Rex and The Birds. Which between them exemplify the tragic and comedic extremes of ancient Greek drama. The great Athenian classical performances of the plays were invariably staged as triplets consisting of two tragedies and one comedy to relieve the tension. They might extend over several days and involve rival authors who vied for the laurel wreath which betokened victory. Here is a recreation of the Greek motif. But it has been updated to conform to modern moods and situations. The results may astonish by their differences from the ancient mode, but they are consonant with both the ancient and modern worlds and may even acquire a few laurels in addition to many sneers.