The most famous tragedies of Sophocles feature Oedipus and Antigone: they are generally known as the Theban plays, though each was part of a different tetralogy (the other members of which are now lost). Sophocles influenced the development of drama, most importantly by adding a third actor (attributed to Sophocles by Aristotle; to Aeschylus by Themistius), thereby reducing the importance of the chorus in the presentation of the plot. He also developed his characters to a greater extent than earlier playwrights.
Key Facts
- Born: January 1, 497 in Colonus, Attica
- Died: 406
Legacy and Impact
The influence of Sophocles extends far beyond his own lifetime. He fundamentally shaped human knowledge and progress, and his achievements and contributions remain foundational to this day.
Though he passed away in 406, his ideas continue to be studied, debated, and built upon by scholars and practitioners worldwide.
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