Ekkyklema

Definition

Ekkyklema is a wheeled platform used in ancient Greek theatre to reveal scenes or characters that were previously offstage, often depicting important moments that couldn't be shown in real-time. This device allowed for the presentation of dramatic events, such as a character’s death or a significant revelation, by rolling the platform into view, enhancing the storytelling and emotional impact of the performance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The ekkyklema was typically used to display characters or events that had taken place offstage, particularly in tragedies where violent actions were often implied rather than shown directly.
2. This device contributed to the dramatic tension by allowing the audience to witness the aftermath of events, such as a character's death, without depicting the act itself.
3. The ekkyklema could be rolled out from the skene onto the stage, providing a visual storytelling element that added depth to the narrative.
4. Use of the ekkyklema highlights how Greek theatre utilized technology and staging to convey complex emotions and plot developments effectively.
5. The concept of ekkyklema reflects broader themes in Greek drama about fate, suffering, and the consequences of actions, enhancing audience engagement with the story.

Review Questions

• How did the use of ekkyklema enhance the storytelling techniques in ancient Greek theatre?
  • The ekkyklema enhanced storytelling by allowing playwrights to reveal significant offstage events to the audience, creating dramatic tension and emotional impact. It provided a visual representation of crucial moments without directly showing violence, making it possible for audiences to engage with powerful narratives and complex character developments. This method also emphasized themes of fate and suffering central to Greek tragedy.
• In what ways does the ekkyklema relate to other theatrical devices like machina and skene in Greek performances?
  • The ekkyklema, along with devices like machina and skene, illustrates how Greek theatre combined various elements to create immersive experiences. While ekkyklema revealed offstage events, machina allowed for spectacular entrances and divine interventions. The skene served as both a backdrop and storage area, enabling transitions between scenes. Together, these elements enhanced narrative depth and maintained audience engagement throughout performances.
• Evaluate the cultural significance of using devices like ekkyklema in reflecting societal values in ancient Greece.
  • The use of ekkyklema reflects societal values by emphasizing themes such as fate, morality, and human suffering within Greek culture. By revealing critical moments offstage, it mirrored cultural beliefs about the consequences of actions and divine intervention. This device not only shaped narrative structure but also provided commentary on human experiences and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals in society. Consequently, it played a crucial role in engaging audiences with their own cultural context while exploring timeless human issues.

Related terms

machina: A crane-like device used in Greek theatre to lift actors or props, often to simulate flight or divine intervention.

skene:

The building at the back of the stage area in ancient Greek theatre, which served as a backdrop for performances and storage for props.

proskenion:

The front part of the skene where actors performed, similar to the modern proscenium stage.