The ancient Greeks wrote plays for several reasons:
* Religious and civic duty: Plays were often performed as part of religious festivals honoring Dionysus, the god of wine, theater, and fertility. These festivals were a crucial part of Greek civic life, and playwrights were considered important contributors to the community.
* Social commentary: Plays offered a platform for exploring social issues, questioning authority, and debating moral dilemmas. Through satire, tragedy, and comedy, playwrights could address the complexities of human nature and the challenges facing their society.
* Entertainment and education: Plays were a form of entertainment, but they also served an educational purpose. By engaging with complex themes and characters, audiences could learn about history, mythology, and philosophy.
* Competition: The theatrical festivals featured competitions among playwrights, with prizes awarded for the best plays. This competitive nature fostered innovation and pushed playwrights to produce their most compelling work.
* Celebration of human experience: Plays explored the full spectrum of human emotions, from love and joy to grief and despair. By confronting difficult themes, the Greeks sought to understand and celebrate the complexities of human existence.
The Greeks had several ways of gauging the success of a play:
* Audience reaction: Applause, laughter, and gasps of awe were clear indicators of a play's effectiveness. The audience was a crucial judge, and their response directly influenced the playwright's reputation.
* Prizes: Winning a prize at the dramatic festivals was a significant achievement, indicating the play's quality and appeal.
* Critical acclaim: Although formal theater critics didn't exist, prominent figures in society, including philosophers and poets, would offer their opinions on plays. Positive reviews from respected figures could greatly enhance a playwright's reputation.
* Longevity: If a play continued to be performed after its initial festival run, it was seen as a sign of its lasting appeal and quality.
* Impact on society: Plays that sparked debate, inspired social change, or offered profound insights into human nature were considered particularly successful.
While these measures give us a glimpse into how the Greeks perceived success, it's important to remember that art is subjective. What one person considers a masterpiece, another may find boring. The success of a play ultimately depends on its ability to connect with an audience and resonate with their emotions and understanding.