How did the chorus originate?

The chorus has its origins in ancient Greek theatre, where it served as a group of singers and dancers who commented on the action of the play. The chorus was typically composed of 12 to 15 men, who were often masked and costumed. They sang and danced together in unison, providing a communal voice that both reflected and interacted with the individual characters.

Over time, the chorus evolved and took on different forms in various theatrical traditions. In medieval Europe, the chorus was often used in religious plays and morality dramas, where it served to teach moral lessons and provide commentary on the action. In the Renaissance and Baroque periods, the chorus was incorporated into operas and oratorios, where it further developed its role as a musical and dramatic element.

In modern theatre, the chorus is still occasionally used, although it is less common than in the past. However, the concept of the chorus has been adapted and reinterpreted in a variety of ways, including in film, television, and other forms of popular culture.