Dionysus
by CTCWeb Editors
City Dionysia
One of the most important ancient Greek traditions was the City Dionysia, celebrated in honor of Dionysus. Students who are interested in learning more about the festival should begin investigating its conduct and traditions using the information below.
Encyclopedia Entries, Aeschylus, Aristophanes and Sophocles.
Mississippi 1977.3.58, Vase Description - At the Country Dionysia, Dionysus was not only portrayed as the god of wine but also as the god of fertility. Large representations of genitalia were carried in the processions to denote Dionysus’ fertile powers. In the more sophisticated City Dionysia, the phallic symbols of Dionysus were retained and represented by the padded suits worn by actors. Boston 98.882, Vase Description - In his Acharnians, Aristophanes offers a glimpse of the ‘Rural Dionysia’ as represented on this vase.
Aeschines, Speech 2, 2.61 note 1 - The note explains a reference to a meeting held at the end of the City Dionysia.
Aristotle, Constitution of the Athenians, 56.3-56.6 - Aristotle explains the rules surrounding the chorus of men and boys for a comedy chorus. Aristotle, Constitution of the Athenians, 57.1 - The Dionysia was also held at cities outside Athens. Different officiating is required at different versions of the festival.
Isocrates, Speech 8.82 and 8.82 (note 3) - Isocreates describes an event during the City Dionysia at which booty and the relatives of dead soldiers were brought on stage. The note says that the City Dionysia took place in March.
Plato, Laws, 812c - The Athenian tells how the sixty years old chorus of Dionysus is able to produce the best hymns because of their experience with music.
