D. l. page

Definition

D. L. Page refers to the prominent scholar known for his extensive work on Menander and Menandrian plays, particularly focusing on the character types and plot structures within these ancient comedies. His research has significantly contributed to the understanding of the narrative techniques, social dynamics, and comedic elements that define Menander's works, allowing readers and scholars to better appreciate the complexities of Greek comedy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. D. L. Page's scholarship is essential for understanding the intricacies of character types used in Menandrian plays, such as stock characters like the cunning servant and the young lover.
2. He analyzed the plot structures of Menander's plays, highlighting common themes like mistaken identities and romantic conflicts.
3. Page's work emphasizes how Menander's use of language and dialogue contributes to the comedic effect and character development in his plays.
4. D. L. Page provided critical editions of Menander's texts that have influenced how scholars interpret the historical context and performance aspects of these comedies.
5. His insights into social interactions depicted in Menander’s plays reveal how comedy served to comment on contemporary Athenian society.

Review Questions

• How does D. L. Page's analysis enhance our understanding of character types in Menandrian plays?
  • D. L. Page's analysis deepens our understanding of character types in Menandrian plays by categorizing them into specific archetypes that reflect societal roles and human behavior. For example, he identifies common figures such as the clever slave or the naive young lover, which allows us to see how these characters drive the narrative and embody comedic elements. By exploring these archetypes, Page shows how they interact with one another to create humor and conflict, enhancing our comprehension of Menander's intentions as a playwright.
• What are some key plot structures identified by D. L. Page in Menandrian comedies, and why are they significant?
  • D. L. Page identifies several key plot structures in Menandrian comedies, such as the use of misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and the classic resolution of romantic tensions. These structures are significant because they not only drive the narrative forward but also reflect real-life complexities of relationships and societal norms in ancient Athens. Page illustrates how these plots create comedic scenarios that engage audiences while also providing insight into human nature and social expectations.
• Evaluate D. L. Page's contributions to our understanding of New Comedy's impact on later theatrical traditions.
  • D. L. Page's contributions are pivotal in evaluating New Comedy’s influence on later theatrical traditions, particularly in shaping comedic conventions in Western drama. His detailed examination of character types and plot mechanisms reveals how New Comedy established frameworks for situational comedy that persist in modern storytelling. By analyzing Menander’s techniques, Page allows us to trace a lineage of comedic influence that extends to Roman playwrights like Plautus and Terence, as well as to contemporary forms such as sitcoms and romantic comedies.

Related terms

Menander: An ancient Greek playwright considered one of the greatest comic dramatists, known for his realistic portrayals of everyday life and complex character development.

New Comedy: A genre of ancient Greek comedy that emerged in the 4th century BCE, characterized by its focus on domestic situations and romantic entanglements, as exemplified in the works of Menander.

Characterization: The method by which a playwright conveys information about characters in a play, including their traits, motivations, and relationships with others.