Theatre of ancient Rome: History and Key Facts

The theatre of ancient Rome refers to the theatrical practice and performance of Rome. The origins of the tradition have been linked to the 4th century BC. Theatre of this era is generally separated into genres of tragedy and comedy, which are represented by a particular style of architecture and stage play, and conveyed to an audience purely as a form of entertainment and control. When it came to the audience, Romans favored entertainment and performance over tragedy and drama, displaying a more modern form of theatre that is still used in contemporary times. The architectural form of theatre in Rome has been linked to later, more well-known examples from the 1st century BC to the 3rd Century AD.

'Spectacle' became an essential part of an everyday Romans expectations when it came to theatre. Some works by the playwrights Plautus, Terence, and Seneca the Younger that survive to this day highlight the different aspects of Roman society and culture of their times, including advancements in Roman literature and theatre. Theatre during this period of time would come to represent an important aspect of Roman society.

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