ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the application of cognitive theory to ancient drama and how this approach can help us understand more about how these plays functioned in antiquity. dispel a few theatrical myths that still surround Greek drama, and inform the way in which these ancient plays are interpreted by modern practitioners. In doing so it also hope to dispel a few theatrical myths that still surround Greek drama, and inform the way in which these ancient plays are interpreted by modern practitioners. It briefly explores three areas based on recent research on cognitive approaches to the experiential elements of ancient drama: environment, masks, and movement. Athenian drama was a theatre of almost constant movement, both individual and collective, and a cognitive approach to what we know of it can help us understand just how much dance, gestures and movement contributed to the emotionality and narrative action of these works.
