Menander

Date of Birth: 342/341 BC

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: c. 290 BC

Biography

Menander was an ancient Greek dramatist and poet of the New Comedy period. Born in Athens around 342/341 BC, Menander was a prolific playwright who wrote over 100 comedies, though only one, “Dyskolos” (The Grouch), has survived in its entirety. Menander’s works were known for their sophisticated portrayal of contemporary Athenian society and their exploration of human relationships and character. His influence extended far beyond his lifetime, as his style and themes were later adapted by Roman playwrights such as Plautus and Terence. Despite his significant contributions to literature, much of Menander’s work has been lost over time, with only fragments and a few partially preserved plays available today.

5 Interesting Facts about Menander

1. Menander is often credited with perfecting the New Comedy genre, which focused on everyday life and social situations rather than the mythical and heroic themes of Old Comedy.

2. The only complete play of Menander that survives today is “Dyskolos” (The Grouch), which was discovered in 1957.

3. Menander’s comedies were known for their intricate plots and well-developed characters, often involving mistaken identities and romantic entanglements.

4. His work greatly influenced later European theatre, and many of his themes and character types can be seen in the works of Shakespeare and Molière.

5. Menander reportedly studied under the philosopher Theophrastus, who was a student of Aristotle, which influenced his exploration of human nature and ethics in his plays.