Meaning: The quote "Religion enabled society to organise itself to debate goodness, just as Greek drama had once done" by Edward Bond, the renowned playwright, encapsulates the significant role that religion and Greek drama have played in shaping societal discourse and moral deliberation. In analyzing this quote, it is essential to delve into the historical and cultural contexts of religion and Greek drama, as well as their impact on societal organization and ethical contemplation.

Religion has been a crucial force in shaping societal values, ethics, and organization across diverse cultures and civilizations. It has provided a framework for individuals and communities to contemplate and debate moral and ethical issues. Through religious teachings, scriptures, rituals, and communal practices, societies have been able to organize themselves around the fundamental questions of goodness, justice, and virtue. The quote highlights the pivotal role of religion as a catalyst for organizing societal discourse on matters of morality and ethical conduct.

Furthermore, the reference to Greek drama in the quote draws attention to the historical significance of dramatic arts as a means of engaging society in ethical debates. In ancient Greece, theatrical performances served as a platform for exploring complex moral dilemmas, human behavior, and the consequences of actions. Greek drama, through the works of playwrights such as Sophocles, Euripides, and Aeschylus, provided a forum for the public to contemplate the nature of goodness, the human condition, and the implications of moral choices. The quote thus draws a parallel between the role of Greek drama in facilitating ethical debates and the function of religion in organizing societal discourse on morality.

Edward Bond's assertion underscores the idea that both religion and Greek drama have served as mechanisms for societal introspection and the examination of ethical principles. The quote implies that religion, with its moral teachings and community organization, and Greek drama, with its portrayal of ethical dilemmas and human behavior, have contributed to the structured deliberation of goodness within society.

In contemporary society, the role of religion in organizing ethical debates continues to be significant. Religious institutions and communities provide platforms for discussions on ethical issues, social justice, and moral responsibility. Moreover, the ethical dilemmas and moral complexities depicted in Greek drama continue to resonate with audiences, prompting introspection and dialogue on timeless ethical themes.

The quote by Edward Bond prompts reflection on the enduring influence of religion and Greek drama in shaping societal discourse on goodness and morality. It emphasizes the role of these cultural and artistic traditions in enabling society to engage in organized debates about fundamental ethical principles. By invoking the parallel between religion and Greek drama, the quote underscores the enduring relevance of both in fostering ethical contemplation and societal organization around matters of goodness and virtue.

In conclusion, Edward Bond's quote highlights the profound impact of religion and Greek drama on organizing societal debates about goodness and morality. It underscores the enduring significance of these cultural and artistic traditions in providing frameworks for ethical contemplation and structured discourse. Religion and Greek drama continue to play vital roles in enabling societies to engage in organized debates about fundamental ethical principles, reflecting their enduring relevance in shaping societal values and moral deliberation.