Classics students and enthusiasts of all ages were delighted to have the opportunity to attend a talk given by Dr Rosie Wyles, Lecturer in Classical History and Literature at the University of Kent, who was invited as an external speaker, on the behalf of the school’s Classics Society. Dr Wyles’ talk centred on drama in the Ancient World, and her focus on both comedy and tragedy truly engaged her audience, as she led us through the dramatic techniques used within a range of plays, such as Aeschylus’ Oresteia and Aristophanes’ The Wasps. It was fascinating to hear of the complicated use of prop within the two genres to bring a simultaneous familiarity to, and distancing from, the Athenian audiences who would have witnessed these performances. Dr Wyles’ captivating descriptions and analysis even allowed for comparisons to be drawn to modern day drama and political situations! We feel very privileged to have been able to engage with this aspect of classical antiquity through Dr Wyles’ talk, and thank her for her time.

Kiana (Lower 6)