Ancient Greece: The Greatest Show on Earth - 2. Kings (BBC)

In this second episode of the BBC documentary series, classicist Dr. Michael Scott explores the dramatic decline of Athens during the 4th century BC and the remarkable transformation of theatre. As Athens lost its empire, political influence, and democratic foundations to autocratic kings and warlords like Philip II of Macedon, its theatrical tradition adapted to survive. The film examines how theatre shifted from an inherently political tool used to critique democratic society into an international, exportable commodity. This historical transition gave rise to New Comedy, a universal genre focusing on domestic affairs and stock characters that serves as the foundation for modern situational comedies.

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