Proskenion
Encyclopedia
In a Hellenistic
theatre
, the proskenion is a raised platform in front of the skênê, on which the actors perform. The Romans used the proskenion and skênê as acting areas after they adopted Hellenistic theatre.
The modern theatrical term proscenium
derives from this word, but now refers to theatres in which actors perform within an archway.
Hellenistic period
The Hellenistic period or Hellenistic era describes the time which followed the conquests of Alexander the Great. It was so named by the historian J. G. Droysen. During this time, Greek cultural influence and power was at its zenith in Europe and Asia...
theatre
Theatre of Ancient Greece
The theatre of Ancient Greece, or ancient Greek drama, is a theatrical culture that flourished in ancient Greece between c. 550 and c. 220 BC. The city-state of Athens, which became a significant cultural, political and military power during this period, was its centre, where it was...
, the proskenion is a raised platform in front of the skênê, on which the actors perform. The Romans used the proskenion and skênê as acting areas after they adopted Hellenistic theatre.
The modern theatrical term proscenium
Proscenium
A proscenium theatre is a theatre space whose primary feature is a large frame or arch , which is located at or near the front of the stage...
derives from this word, but now refers to theatres in which actors perform within an archway.
Sources
- Brockett, Oscar G. and Franklin J. Hildy. 2003. History of the Theatre. Ninth edition, International edition. Boston: Allyn and Bacon. ISBN 0205410502.