The invention of the theater in Athens (c. 530–510 BC) was one of the most pivotal and enigmatic developments in the ancient world. The first plays that were produced were tragedies, famous for their depiction of human suffering. Many of these plays (such as Antigone, Medea, and Oedipus the King) are still studied and performed today. But what are we to make of these wrenching stories? Is this just horror for the sake of horror? Is it extreme pessimism? Or, as some philosophers have argued, is there something cathartic, or even elevating, about these plays?

Furthermore, theater in Athens develops around the same time that democracy is born. Is that a coincidence? Or is there some deeper connection between the invention of theater and democracy?

In this episode, Stanford classics professor Rush Rehm shares his insights on the origin and nature of Greek tragedy - insights he has acquired from years of engagement with these plays not only as a scholar but also as an actor and director. Our discussion starts with the dawn of theater in ancient Athens. We talk first about what going to the theater was like for the ancient Athenians, and then we delve into some of the deeper issues these plays bring up.

Rehm's recent books include "Understanding Greek Tragic Theatre" as well as "Radical Theatre: Greek Tragedy in the Modern World."