A comprehensive survey of ancient tragic drama that traces its emergence from Dionysian choral rites into staged performance and outlines the key formal and theatrical innovations that shaped the genre. It examines the roles of chorus and actors, the development of plot and dramatic structure, and the practicalities of production and staging. Individual chapters offer close critical readings of the major tragedians and a focused study of metre and lyric scansion, especially chorus rhythm. Written for both students and informed general readers, the work combines historical overview, structural analysis, and technical guidance to aid appreciation and performance of the plays.