Aeschylus Research Paper

The theater was one of the most important aspects of Greek life, so naturally, Greece bred many prominent and esteemed playwrights. One of those playwrights is Aeschylus. Born circa 525 B.C.E., Aeschylus is one of the most notable Greek dramatists and wrote over 90 plays, some satire, and some tragedies. Son of Euphorion, Aeschylus was born into a noble family in Eleusis, a town about two miles west of Athens. Like many Athenian men at the time, Aeschylus, aged 35, left to go fight at the Battle of Marathon against the Persians. In that battle, Aeschylus’ brother Cynegius died. Aeschylus is also believed to have fought against Persian invaders 10 years later at the Battle of Artemisium, the Battle of Salamis, and the Battle of Plataea. Around 499 B.C.E., Aeschylus began his dramatic career by writing dramas to compete against Pratinas and Choerilus in poetry competitions at the City Dionysia.

Between 478 B.C.E. and 472 B.C.E., because his work was receiving little attention in Athens, Aeschylus visited King Hiero’s court in Sicily and produced his plays there. During his lifetime, Aeschylus wrote approximately 90 plays, the most notable being Seven Against Thebes, Prometheus Bound, and Persians. His production of his plays is notable for adding a second actor to the stage, allowing for more dialogue, and interaction between characters. His plays are also notable for their religious themes, and examination of the role of the gods in delivering justice. He also focused on politics, in particular, war, court reforms, and prominent statesmen. Towards the end of his life, Aeschylus returned to Sicily, and reportedly died there when an eagle dropped a tortoise shell on his head. Another notable Greek dramatist is