Why were masks used in Greek theater?
Masks were worn in Greek theater to differentiate among the characters on the stage all of whom were played by men. The mask also clearly portrayed the emotion of the character so that the audience, even in the seats furthest from the stage, could identify with his part of the story.Provide disguiseThe members of the cult of Dionysus originated dramatic presentations for the entertainment and edification of the audience. The members were men, so the wearing of masks helped the actors to disguise their own appearance when they played more than one role within a drama.Express emotionThe mask over the face of the actor was said to allow the actor to express emotion more clearly than he could with just his facial expressions and voice. Considering the size of the theaters and the distance between actor and audience, the exaggeration of emotion on a mask probably enhanced the audience’s understanding of the drama.Enhanced resonance and empathyA few theorists believe that masks increased the
