The Profession of Mousikē in Classical Greece

doi:10.1017/9781108878135.010

9 - The Profession of Mousikē in Classical Greece

from Part IV - Case Studies of Professions 2: Music and Athletics

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 18 September 2020

Edited by

Edward Harris and

Edmund Stewart: Affiliation:
University of Nottingham
Edward Harris: Affiliation:
University of Durham
David Lewis: Affiliation:
University of Edinburgh

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Summary

This paper explores the impact of acknowledged skill in mousikē (the ancient term which refers to the whole art of poetry, music and drama) on the income, identity and social status of poets, actors and musicians in the classical period. It is argued that the social status of these professionals depended on public recognition of the usefulness of their individual skills and the personal reputations of performers, rather than their economic class or legal order.

Keywords

Greek theatre Greek Music New Music aulos players tragedy comedy

Type: Chapter
Information: Skilled Labour and Professionalism in Ancient Greece and Rome , pp. 269 - 292

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781108878135.010 [Opens in a new window]

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Print publication year: 2020

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9 - The Profession of Mousikē in Classical Greece

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