Egyptian and Hebrew Drama History of Drama Drama

Egyptian and Hebrew Drama History of Drama

Drama Origins Drama “to do or act” Originating through primitive dance revolving around religion Eventually a speaking actor emerged, hence drama was born Can still be seen in hula dances, sun dances, corn dances, etc.

Egyptian Drama Egyptian drama dates to 3000 B. C. Main concern was life after death Pyramids were built as tombs for the afterlife Drama revolved around life after death

5 Types of Egyptian Plays 1. Pyramid Plays written on tomb walls, included characters, plot & stage directions Showed resurrection of body Done to ensure safe passage to the afterlife 2. Coronation Festival Play performed at the crowning of a new pharaoh Performed by priests

5 Types of Egyptian Plays 3. Heb Sed Celebrated pharaoh's 30 th year on the throne Reenacted events from his reign 4. Medicinal Play Evolved around magical healing

5 Types of Egyptian Play 5. Abydos “Passion” Play Earliest scripted drama presentation recorded Characters: Set (or Seth): god of evil Osiris: Set’s brother Isis: Osiris’s wife

Plot: Abydos “Passion” Play Set is jealous of Osiris, tricks him into a coffin, nails it shut and throws it in the Nile. Isis finds the coffin and brings Osiris to life so they can conceive a child. Osiris becomes King of the Dead. Their child grows up and defeats Set to avenge his father’s death. video

Hebrew Drama No reference of definite theater in Bible 2 books have dramatic structure Job Song of Songs J. B. – Archibald Mac. Leish

The Book of Job While Job is not considered drama, it is sometimes performed in dramatic structure Dramatic readings Dramatic structure Prologue (prose) Main Body (poetry) Epilogue (prose)