Comic Business situates Aristophanic comedy in the context of competitive (re)performance culture in 5th- and 4th-century Greece. It seeks to illuminate how the dazzling busyness of Aristophanic comedy is the creation of a carefully manipulating craftsman trying to outdo his rivals in the fierce competition of the dramatic festivals. Theoretically informed by theatre semiotics and frame-based models of conceptualizing the theatrical event, it analyses in a number of case studies how theatrical resources of all kinds are utilized in order to generate theatrical meaning as well as capture and sustain audience interest. The approach therefore combines philological analysis with methodologies developed in Theatre Studies. Special attention is given to the visual dimension of theatrical communication. Material from comparator traditions is brought to bear, as is the evidence of the pictorial record.

About the Author
Martin Revermann is Associate Professor in Classics and Theatre Studies, University of Toronto.

Reviews
...substantial volume... well worth reading * Michael Ewans, The Classical Review *
Revermann's book is certainly one of the most significant studies of Old Comedy to appear in decades, * Ralph M. Rosen, University of Pennsylvania *
...innovative, meaty, uniquely depictive analysis...meticulous... * Giovanna Alvoni, Gnomon *
...a coherent and engaging discussion of Aristophanic comedy in performance. In this, Revermann offers a crisp presentation of familiar issues, while carrying the debate forward in new directions. * Zachary Biles, Classical Journal *
a rich and fascinating study... a very fine book * Robert Tordoff, Hermathena *



Book Information
ISBN 9780198152712
Author Martin Revermann
Format Hardback
Page Count 416
Imprint Oxford University Press
Publisher Oxford University Press
Weight(grams) 653g
Dimensions(mm) 224mm * 143mm * 30mm