Greek and Roman Theater (World History Series) [ILLUSTRATED] (Library Binding)

by Don Nardo (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Gr 7 Up--A well-done study of an aspect of classical culture that is usually given only cursory attention in most history books. The development of theatrical forms and the meaning and importance of performance and poetry to the Greeks are discussed, and biographical information about popular actors and playwrights is provided. Nardo explains that although the Romans had no notable early theater until they began to copy Greek styles, they demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt forms to suit their own tastes and culture. He then covers Late Republican drama and that of the Roman Empire; a follow-up chapter explores the profound influence of the ancient legacy on the art today. Primary and secondary sources are well documented. Numerous black-and-white photographs, charts, and illustrations help to round out this commendable addition. Paula Gaj Sitarz's The Curtain Rises, Vol. 1 (Betterway, 1991) is an interesting and at times amusing title that looks more thoroughly into the history of the theater, and volume two carries it to the present day.

Cynthia M. Sturgis, Ledding Library, Milwaukee, OR

Copyright 1995 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

Product Details

• Library Binding: 112 pages
• Publisher: Lucent Books; illustrated edition edition (September 1994)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1560062495
• ISBN-13: 978-1560062493
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 7.8 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,455,713 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Fascinating Stuff, April 7, 2001

By A Customer

I am an aspiring actor and love to read about the history of theater. The title of this book caught my eye when I was scanning Amazon's listings for books about theater history, so I got a copy. I have to admit that I didn't know all that much about ancient theater before reading it. It really opened my eyes. It is really a kind of revalation to find out that almost every aspect of modern theater, including playwriting, acting, costumes, and so on were pioneered by the ancient Greeks. According to the author (Don Nardo) they even came up with the idea of theater tickets. It kind of humbles you to think there's really not much new under the sun, as the old saying goes. The sections of the book on Roman theater are REALLY fascinating. I can definitely recomend this book to all theater students or those who admire acting, plays, and movies.