Question

Who is regarded as the first of the great tragedians in Greek theater?

• A. Sophocles
• B. Aeschylus
• C. Euripedese
• D. Aritophance

Hint:

Remember the chronological order of the big three Greek tragedians: \textbf{A}eschylus, \textbf{S}ophocles, \textbf{E}uripides (A-S-E). Aeschylus always comes first.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the earliest of the three great Athenian tragedians whose works have survived.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The golden age of Greek tragedy in the 5th century BCE is defined by the works of three major playwrights. Their chronological order is:
1. Aeschylus (c. 525 – c. 456 BCE): Often described as the "father of tragedy," he is the earliest of the three. He is credited with introducing the second actor, which allowed for dialogue independent of the chorus.
2. Sophocles (c. 497 – c. 406 BCE): He came after Aeschylus and is credited with introducing the third actor and developing characterization more deeply.
3. Euripides (c. 480 – c. 406 BCE): The last of the great tragedians, known for his psychological realism and questioning of traditional values.
Aristophanes was a comic playwright, not a tragedian.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Aeschylus is regarded as the first of the great Greek tragedians.