I.Drama
developed out of the Dithyramb, a choral performance in honor of the God
of Wine, Dionysus.
II.According
to tradition, Thespis, the Father of Drama, established
dialog by moving one of the chorus out as the first actor, or hypokrites
(answerer).
III.In
535, tragedy was officially recognized by the Athenian state.
IV.Tragedies
were performed at religious festivals such as the City Dionysia in
the spring. Three competing
playwrights would each put on three tragedies (a trilogy) and a Satyr
Play,
a short, mock-heroic satire.