Reconstructing Aristophanic Performance: Stage Properties in Acharnians
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
Spring 2007
Journal / Book Title
Classical World
Abstract
Nowhere is Aristophanes' use of stage properties more striking than in Acharnians. Drawing on recent work in performance theory, this article attempts to reexamine the staging of major scenes in Acharnians by focusing on Aristophanes' concern for sensational and symbolically charged stage properties. Physical objects in this play seem to have two primary functions: (a) they "animate" and "anchor" many of Aristophanes' jokes; and (b) they are often the major vehicle through which Aristophanes reinforces his political and cultural commentary on wartime Athens.
Montclair State University Digital Commons Citation
English, Mary C., "Reconstructing Aristophanic Performance: Stage Properties in Acharnians" (2007). Department of Classics and General Humanities Faculty Scholarship and Creative Works. 22.
https://digitalcommons.montclair.edu/classics-gnrl-hmnties-facpubs/22
Published Citation
English, Mary C. "Reconstructing Aristophanic Performance: Stage Properties in Acharnians." Classical World, vol. 100 no. 3, 2007, p. 199-227. Project MUSE, doi:10.1353/clw.2007.0026.
Comments
Paper originated in a panel held at the Fall 2002 Meeting of the Classical Association of the Atlantic States in New Brunswick, New Jersey, on "Aristophanes and the Boundaries of Comedy."