Ancient Greek Theatrical Masks

Ancient Greek Theatrical Masks

I have to write an essay, but I don't know where to start! Got same problem?

No, I know what to write!

Oh, yeah!

Really?
You can miss the chance to get a discount!

I don't want it!

I want a discount!

What problem have you faced?

I’m looking for interesting topic

I need more information

I’m missing my deadline

I don’t have good writing skills

Please select a writing level corresponding to your institutional affiliation

High School

University

College

Master’s

What kind of paper do you need to write?

Essay

Coursework

Research

Other

How much time do you have?

1 day

3 days

5 days

7 days

We are here to solve your problem! You may order with your personal 17% discount by using code THANKS

I have more questions

I want to use my discount!

Thank you for giving us your precious time!Continue to get acquainted with the work created by our professional writers. Good day!

Ancient theatrical masks had a significant impact on the development of Greek theatrical traditions. The use of masks dates backs to the times of worship of Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility. At that time, the actors wore masks during the various ceremonies and celebration performances.

The Look of the Ancient Theatrical Masks

Ancient Greek masks looked like a helmet. The actors put the mask on their heads. The masks were made of linen, cork, wood, or leather. Greek masks were oversized and covered the whole head. The masks had massive face features. The mouth was always opened to provide better acoustics. As a result, the voices of the actors and chorus could be heard even in the last seat row (Vovolis 125). Greek masks were used with wigs. The wigs were made of human or animal hair.

The ancient Greek masks expressed different feelings. Actors wore masks with sorrowful or tormented expressions when playing tragic roles. Comic masks were smiling or grinning. Thus, the audience always saw the emotional state of a character. The masks also helped the spectators to identify the character’s sex, age, and social status.

The Purpose of Using Theatrical Masks

The ancient Greek masks served many purposes. Since the theaters were very large, the actors wore masks for better visibility. It means that all spectators were able to see the expressions of actors’ faces (Vovolis 149).

The number of actors that performed on the stage ranged from three to one. As a result, one actor wore different masks to be able to play several roles. In addition, in the ancient Greek theater men were the only actors; women were forbidden to take part in a performance (Vovolis 140). Thus, the masks helped men to play female roles.

Conclusion

Ancient Greek theatrical masks played a significant role in ancient Greek performances. Masks’ hyperbolic expressions helped to define the characters that the actors were playing. They also helped the spectators to see and hear the characters better. Because the ancient Greek masks were made of natural materials, they have not been preserved to present times.

Order Now

Live Chat

Related essays

• Methods of Evangelism
• Love Languages
• Rotating Leaders: Orpheus Orchestra
• Sexuality in Kate Chopin's Story The Storm
• Review of Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman