Birthdate: 496 BC
Nationality: Greek
Bio:
Sophocles was one of the most famous and celebrated Greek tragedians. Born in 496 BC in Colonus, near Athens, he lived during the Golden Age of Athens and was highly influential in the literary and artistic world. Sophocles competed in the Dionysian festivals for which he wrote around 123 plays, only 7 of which survive in a complete form today. His work had a significant impact on theater and continues to influence modern performances.
Some of Sophocles’ most renowned plays include Oedipus Rex, Antigone and Electra. Exploring complex themes of fate, hubris, moral dilemmas and the flaws of humanity, these tragedies showcase his masterful use of dramatic tension, poetic language and complex characters. They often portray the downfall of a heroic figure due to a tragic flaw, following Aristotle’s concept of hamartia. Sophocles is also credited with adding a third actor to Greek dramas, allowing for greater complexity in storytelling.
During his lifetime, Sophocles enjoyed unprecedented success, winning more first prizes at the Dionysia festival than any other playwright of his time. He lived into his nineties, dying in 406 BC. Sophocles made immense contributions to the world of Greek theater through his innovative works, establishing conventions that shaped the genre for centuries. Today he remains one of antiquity’s most studied playwrights for his enduring artistic legacy.
