Thespis

views updated

Thespis (6th century bc), Greek dramatic poet, regarded as the founder of Greek tragedy; Aristotle named him the originator of the role of the actor in addition to the traditional chorus. His name gives rise to the word thespian.

The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable ELIZABETH KNOWLES

Thespis

views updated

Thespis (6th century bc) Greek writer, according to tradition, the inventor of tragedy. He is also said to have introduced a character separate from the chorus, who provided dialogue by responding to the chorus' comments.

World Encyclopedia

Thespis

views updated

Thespis, or The Gods Grown Old. ‘Grotesque opera’ by Sullivan to lib. by Gilbert (their first collab.). Score now lost. Prod. London 1871.

The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Music MICHAEL KENNEDY and JOYCE BOURNE

More From encyclopedia.com

About this article

Thespis

All Sources -
Updated Aug 24 2016 About encyclopedia.com content Print Topic

Related Content