My first review: The Jurymen

The first full review of my first play, The Jurymen.

'“The Jurymen” is complex and intricate. This play has many of the traditional components of a Greek play, like the Chorus, for example.While many may consider the standard Chorus song to be long and excessive, the songs in “The Jurymen” are necessary, and serve as an opportunity for more popular culture to be incorporated as well as an extension of the storyline. Moreover, I commend the writer for his or her ability to smoothly and comically transition into these songs.

Throughout the play one is reminded of these intentions, particularly that of education. The writer manages to both eloquently and deliberately incorporate elements of Classical mythology, philosophy, politics and history all while discussing the trial of Socrates. For example, on page thirteen the character Aristophanes suggests that a Greek chorus is needed to which Aristodemus replies, “…A chorus would help give the needed melody, which would work hand in hand with verse composition.” This serves as a contribution to the development of the chorus as a character as well as an introduction to audience members who may not be familiar with the significant role the chorus plays in a Greek comedy.

Furthermore, “The Jurymen” is able to remain loyal but also original, in regards to the classic style of comedy, largely because Greek comedies are topical. That is, the jokes are often specifically intended for ancient Athenians. Without knowledge of the social issues surrounding ancient Athens, many jokes are overlooked. “The Jurymen” discusses relevant twenty-first century social issues such as the Al Gore recount and the Texas Board of Education. This is perhaps the most insightful and surprising aspect of “The Jurymen”. A mark of thoughtful writing is found not by the mere inclusion of comedic definitions and characters named after philosophers, rather this mark is found in the writer’s ability to grasp the work of an era.

After being awed by the writer’s ability to successfully understand the larger workings of Greek comedy, the writer then pays an impressive amount of attention to detail. The writer anticipates all potential problems in terms of staging such as stage directions, audience inclusion as well as many reoccurring jokes. For example, the Chorus is from Idaho, which the characters eventually understand to be Ephesus. The mention of Ephesus is made through the play on multiple occasions. The writer even allows for extra time to be given to the audience as they cast their “vote” and decide Socrates’ fate.

It is this combination of large understanding and attention to specific details that deems this play publishable. Moreover, the writer shows a mastery of style in his or her efforts to create a successful portrait of Athens as an “ongoing dialogue”. This dialogue may mirror the philosophy that is so prevalent throughout the course of the play.

When examining the dialogue between the characters, it is obvious that the writer is familiar with classical philosophy and the commonly held beliefs associated with philosophers such as Socrates and Plato. For example, on page 20 the writer allows Plato’s “Allegory of the Cave” to be introduced. In fact, the writer goes so far as to define the “Allegory” for audience members who may not know. Again, the primary goal of education is achieved.

Despite the amount of praise I may give the writer as a Classicist, “The Jurymen” successfully mocks many of the stereotypical aspects that are often associated with philosophers. This is incredibly evident in the first scene with the persistent mentioning of drinking (mentioned in some 10 pages!), which brings to mind Monty Python’s “Philosopher’s Drinking Song.” Also, the way Socrates’ character talks in circles and has moments of absent-mindedness adds an additional element of depth to Socrates as a character. This separates him from the man in history books.

There are many struggles that one may encounter when developing fictionalized yet historical characters. The viewer has many expectations when concerning philosophers such as Socrates. What distinguishes a historical and comic character from a biased character? To avoid such problems the writer must include significant historical details such as hemlock, which is often associated with Socrates, as well as Apollo’s “accidental” mention of Roman rule.

“The Jurymen” is a well researched comedy that has an overwhelming amount of detail. The “Commentary” on page sixty-one provides an enormous sum of information about Aristophanes, Socrates, and many of the other educational elements of “The Jurymen”. If it is not apparent by the writer’s grasp of Greek comedy that the writer is well-versed in the culture and politics of ancient Athens, it becomes abundantly clear by examining the “Commentary” as well as the works cited by the writer.

I am left with little doubt that “The Jurymen” should be accepted and published. I am convinced that “The Jurymen” is successful in its attempts to first and foremost educate. Also, I feel confident that this play could be performed, and not to mention be well received, at most colleges and universities. It is with this simple fact that allows “The Jurymen” to be an undeniable triumph.'