Meaning: The quote "The Greeks said very, very extreme things in their tragedies" by Edward Bond, the renowned English playwright, encapsulates a profound observation about the nature of Greek tragedies and their enduring impact on literature and drama. This quote speaks to the intense and often unsettling themes and emotions that are at the core of ancient Greek dramatic works, and it also hints at the enduring relevance and power of these narratives.

In order to fully appreciate the significance of this quote, it is essential to delve into the world of Greek tragedies and their enduring legacy. Greek tragedies were a form of dramatic performance that emerged in ancient Greece, particularly in Athens, during the 5th century BCE. These plays were typically performed during religious festivals and were deeply rooted in the culture and mythology of ancient Greece. The themes explored in Greek tragedies often revolved around the complexities of human existence, the capriciousness of fate, and the interplay between mortals and the divine.

One of the most famous and revered playwrights of ancient Greece was Sophocles, who authored timeless tragedies such as "Oedipus Rex" and "Antigone." These plays grappled with profound questions about fate, free will, and the consequences of human actions. The themes and messages conveyed in these works were indeed extreme in their depth and emotional resonance, delving into the darkest aspects of the human experience.

The quote by Edward Bond acknowledges the extremity of the themes and ideas presented in Greek tragedies. These plays did not shy away from depicting the depths of human suffering, the destructive forces of hubris, and the inexorable march of fate. The characters in these tragedies often faced harrowing trials and tribulations, and their experiences resonated with audiences then as they do now, centuries later.

Furthermore, Greek tragedies were not merely vehicles for entertainment; they served as profound reflections on the human condition and the moral dilemmas that confront individuals and societies. The extremity of the themes explored in these plays was a deliberate artistic choice, intended to provoke deep emotional and intellectual responses from the audience. Through the portrayal of extreme situations and emotions, Greek tragedies aimed to elicit catharsis, a purging of emotions and a heightened sense of empathy and understanding.

Edward Bond, as a playwright himself, likely recognized the enduring power of Greek tragedies and their ability to push the boundaries of dramatic expression. In his own works, Bond has also delved into the exploration of intense and confronting themes, often challenging audiences with the stark realities of human existence. His quote serves as a testament to the enduring influence of Greek tragedies on the evolution of dramatic storytelling and the exploration of the human psyche.

In conclusion, the quote by Edward Bond encapsulates the profound impact and enduring relevance of Greek tragedies in the realm of literature and drama. Through their extreme themes and unflinching portrayal of human suffering, Greek tragedies continue to captivate and resonate with audiences, serving as timeless reflections on the complexities of the human experience. Bond's acknowledgment of the extremity of Greek tragedies underscores their enduring power to provoke introspection, empathy, and profound emotional responses, cementing their status as enduring cornerstones of dramatic storytelling.