Aeschylus was an ancient Greek playwright who is often credited as the 'father of tragedy'. He lived from approximately 525-456 BCE and wrote over 70 plays, of which only seven have survived in full. His works dealt with themes such as the power of fate, the struggle between individuals and the gods, and the consequences of hubris.
Born in Eleusis, Greece in approximately 525 BCE
Fought in the Battle of Marathon in 490 BCE
Won his first tragic contest at the City Dionysia in 484 BCE
Wrote over 70 plays, of which only seven have survived in full
Died in 456 BCE
Aeschylus is known for being an ancient Greek playwright who is often credited as the 'father of tragedy'. He wrote over 70 plays, of which only seven have survived in full. His works dealt with themes such as the power of fate, the struggle between individuals and the gods, and the consequences of hubris.
Aeschylus wrote over 70 plays, of which only seven have survived in full. His surviving plays include The Persians, Seven Against Thebes, The Suppliant Maidens, The Oresteia (Agamemnon, The Libation-Bearers, and The Eumenides), and Prometheus Bound.
Aeschylus is often credited as the 'father of tragedy' and his works were instrumental in shaping ancient Greek drama. He introduced the idea of a second actor to the stage, which allowed for more complex interactions between characters. He also expanded the chorus from 12 to 15 members and introduced the use of stage scenery.
Aeschylus' works dealt with themes such as the power of fate, the struggle between individuals and the gods, and the consequences of hubris. He often wrote about conflicts between the individual and society, as well as the tension between justice and revenge.
It is believed that Aeschylus died in 456 BCE, but the exact cause of his death is unknown. According to legend, he was killed when an eagle dropped a tortoise on his head, mistaking it for a rock. However, this story is likely apocryphal.