Origin of Drama - JSS1 Cultural and Creative Art Lesson Note

Drama has roots in various human activities and cultural practices:

 

Mimesis: Drama originated from the human instinct to imitate and represent reality. Early humans observed and mimicked actions, behaviors, and events, which eventually evolved into dramatic performances. Through mimesis, people could portray stories, characters, and emotions.

 

Ritual: Many scholars believe that drama emerged from religious rituals and ceremonies. These rituals often included symbolic actions, chants, and performances to appease gods, commemorate events, or mark important occasions. Over time, these rituals developed into more structured and theatrical performances.

 

Storytelling: Another significant origin of drama is storytelling. Ancient cultures used narratives to pass down traditions, myths, and histories orally. As storytelling evolved, it incorporated elements of performance, such as character portrayal, dialogue, and dramatic tension, laying the foundation for dramatic forms.