Chorus

Definition

In theatre, a chorus is a group of performers who comment on the action of a play, often through song, dance, or spoken word. They serve as a narrative device that enhances the story, provides insight into characters' emotions, and connects the audience to the themes of the work. The chorus plays a crucial role in shaping the rhythm and pacing of the performance, often reflecting societal norms and moral lessons.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The chorus originated in ancient Greek theatre, where it consisted of groups of men who would sing and dance to tell stories and express collective viewpoints.
2. Choruses often provided background information, commentary, and reflections on the events taking place on stage, helping to guide the audience's understanding.
3. In tragedies, the chorus would typically express themes of fate, morality, and human emotion, while in comedies, it might use humor and satire to engage the audience.
4. The size of the chorus varied throughout history; in early Greek drama, it could consist of up to 50 members, while later adaptations saw smaller groups.
5. Modern adaptations of theatre sometimes utilize a chorus in innovative ways, blending traditional elements with contemporary styles to resonate with modern audiences.

Review Questions

• How does the chorus function as a narrative device in ancient Greek theatre?
  • The chorus serves as a crucial narrative device by providing commentary and insights that help shape the audience's understanding of the story. They often reflect on themes and character emotions through song and movement, bridging gaps between the action on stage and the audience's perception. This collective voice not only enhances storytelling but also engages viewers emotionally by connecting them to broader societal issues present in the play.
• Discuss how the role of the chorus has evolved from ancient Greek theatre to modern performances.
  • The role of the chorus has transformed significantly from its origins in ancient Greek theatre to contemporary performances. Initially, choruses provided essential commentary and context for the audience, guiding their emotional responses. Today, while some productions still use traditional choruses, many modern interpretations experiment with their function, incorporating diverse styles and mediums such as multimedia presentations or spoken word performances. This evolution reflects changes in audience engagement and artistic expression within theatrical practices.
• Evaluate the impact of the chorus on character development and thematic exploration within classical theatre.
  • The chorus has a profound impact on character development and thematic exploration in classical theatre by acting as a mirror to the characters’ thoughts and societal norms. Through their songs and dialogues, they reveal hidden emotions and moral dilemmas faced by characters while also addressing broader themes such as fate, justice, and human experience. This layered interaction not only deepens character arcs but also enriches thematic complexity, making the work resonate with audiences on multiple levels.

Related terms

Dithyramb: A passionate hymn sung in honor of Dionysus, often performed by a chorus and considered an early form of Greek theatre.

Strophe: The first part of an ancient Greek choral ode, sung as the chorus moves in one direction across the stage.

Antistrophe: The second part of an ancient Greek choral ode, sung as the chorus moves in the opposite direction, often providing a counterpoint to the strophe.