VIDEO

Escapist Entertainment and Civic Engagement

Learn how ancient Greek theater paved the way for modern-day entertainment.

Grades

6 - 12

Subjects

Geography, Human Geography, Social Studies, World History

The Greeks invented theater as escapist entertainment and civic engagement. Theater encouraged Greeks to “become more moral by processing the most important issues of the day,” through both tragedy and satire.

How do comedy and drama help you interpret everyday life and events?

Articles & Profiles

National Geographic Education: World’s First Actor Takes the Stage

Website

Metropolitan Museum of Art: Theater in Ancient Greece National Geographic Education: Ancient Greece

Credits

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Writer

Jeanna Sullivan, National Geographic Society

Editor

Caryl-Sue Micalizio, National Geographic Society

Producer

Sarah Appleton, National Geographic Society, National Geographic Society

other

Last Updated

November 29, 2023

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Related Resources

Funder

Arthur Vining Davis