Introduction

The Greeks have had quite an influence on present day American society. We have talked about their influence in government, education, and the arts in our society.

Greek theatre has been very influential in many ways. This information has been covered up by teachers and government officals everywhere! Someone needs to share it with the world.

The Quest

Your mission Jim, should you decide to accept it (and receive a passing grade!) is to uncover this information and report it in the World's Largest Newspaper for everyone to see. Whatever role you choose below, your article will be published on the front page. Answer the questions that 'enquiring minds want to know'!

The Process and Resources

In this webquest, you will be working in groups of two or three filling one of the roles below. Make sure that everyone participates! That is part of your grade.
When you finish, your group will have one newspaper article written from the perspective of the role you have chosen. Everyone will turn in answers to the questions found in phase 1.

Phase 1 - Background: Something for Everyone

1. Who is Dionysus? What is her role in the history of Greek Theatre?

2. How did Thespis change Greek theatre?

3. Who are the 'Big 3' of Greek Tragedy? Tell one important contribution of each person to Greek Tragedy.

4. What is a dithyramb?

5. Describe the typical audience for the Greek theatre. What were some ways an actor would get the audience's attention.

6. Describe the structure of the Greek theatre.

7. Describe the masks used by Greek actors.

8. List the 7 principles of greek tragedy.

9. List the 4 qualities of Greek drama.

10. List the 3 major parts of the Greek stage. Give a BRIEF description of the function of each.

• History of Ancient Greek Theatre - This site gives some good information on the background of Greek Theatre
• Structure and Performance Practices - Good information about what the theatre looked like and things the actors wore and used during performances.
• Greek Tragedy - In depth info on the most popular form -- tragedy.
• The Greek Stage - Everything you want to know about the stage in Ancient Greek Theatre.

Phase 2 - Looking Deeper from Different Perspectives

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Read through the instructions for your assigned role.

2. Write a newspaper article from the perspective of the role that you and your partner(s) choose. The article needs to be long enough to cover the topic, but short enough to keep the interest of the reader.

Reporter

Use the 'Information for Everyone' and write your article from the perspective of the Reporter. You are simply reporting on 'The fact's m'am...just the facts', as if the newspaper is doing a feature story on Greek Theatre. You may use the sites below to enrich your topic.

• The Stage - Important information on the setup of the stage in Greek Theatre.
• Dionysus - Site that lets you in on the importance of the Greek goddess.

Interviewer

You are to interview one of the 'Big 3' in Greek tragedy. Give the reader an idea about what your figure thinks of Greek theatre in general. Base his/her thoughts on facts you gathered in the 'Information for everyone' section. NOTE: IF YOU CHOOSE SOMEONE OTHER THAN SOPHOCLES -- you must tell how your figure reacts to the contributions of Sophocles.

• Playwrights and Their Importance - This site will tell you all you need to know about the big names in Greek Theatre.

Opinionator

The title of your article is 'Greek or Roman Theatre: Which is best?' You must write your article based on the facts found in the 'Information for everyone' section and the link below. Give at least 5 reasons why you chose the type of theater you chose. Convince your audience that your choice is best.

• Roman Theater - The site that will give you the scoop on the Romans

BONUS

The following are Bonus opportunities. They will help your grade in the future. These items may be completed as a group.

1. Construct a model of the greek theatre.

2. Transform your article into a skit or a song to be performed for the class. (This can be videotaped and shown in class.)

Phase 3 - Debating, Discussing, and Reaching Consensus

Phase 4 - Real World Feedback

Your Contact is: the designated contact

Conclusion

Now the world will know the importance of Greek Theatre because of your tireless efforts in top notch journalism. Congratulations!