The study of Ancient Greek Theater in the 9th grade curriculum explores the origins of drama as a state institution and its profound role in ancient society. This "video feature" covers the essential cultural, architectural, and literary components of the topic.

Theater emerged in the 6th century BCE from religious rituals dedicated to , the god of wine and fertility.

Tradition credits Thespis as the first person to step out of the ritual chorus to impersonate a character, creating the foundation for individual acting.

These were choral hymns sung in honor of Dionysus that eventually evolved into scripted drama.