[Tidbits] Gold Greek Mask

The gold Greek mask you are all about to see–made into a pendant as
a gesture toward justification–is supposedly made in the image of a
god’s face. How did they know? As an addendum … Greek actors back
then usually–or perhaps always–wore masks. This one was one of many
choices available. But here’s the thing of it. those masks were
always comic caricatures of the character the actor was playing. And
if that’s so. then does this also hold true for the gold Greek mask
that was supposedly made in the image of a god’s face? And who does
the actor use as a role model for his interpretation. Ah. life’s
questions titillate. do they not?

If I look at the face. I have to say. better a caricature–in this
case–than reality. As an aside. before the masks came along the
actors wore goatskins. And as a prize for best actor–the
Oscar-du-jour if you will–the thespian of the day received a goat in
recognition of his talents. Good thing they didn’t wear donkey skins.

And then. around 534 BC. a new actor came forth out of the chorus and
made history by donning a variety of different masks during one show.
each mask depicting a different character. adopting different roles
as he switched masks… introducing to his people a new form of
acting called drama. And the actor’s name. you ready for this.
Thespis. Ta-dum!

The history of masks in Greek theatre is not at all unusual. What
makes this mask unique is that it is gold. And now for a quick
explanation as to why this is going to end up being the shortest
Tidbits in history. The debates were on in about 5 minutes from the
time I was writing this article. This… coupled with life’s
diversions–not the least of which is OCR software problems I am
having as well as holiday dinners up the kazoo and the general
confrontation of the mish-mash of everyday hurdles–has caused me to
take this shortcut. It’s curt. It’s sweet. I do hope it’s
entertaining. A small portion of my soul says I shouldn’t have
bothered. If you agree. it would be nice if you did not let me know.

So in the meantime. catch you all next week folks.

You know the rest. The visit to the image. also known as the viewing
experience. You know where. Home page. http://www.tyler-adam.com.
Scroll down. Left side. [Tidbits]. Click. And there for your sensory
optic pleasure you will see an image golden mask of a Greek god.

And there ya have it. That’s it for this week folks. Catch you all
next week.

Benjamin Mark

Benjamin,

The mask is fascinating! Any idea about the measurements? You have
inspired me to research 534 B. C. to learn more about what the
Greeks thought about God as a deity. The mask does not look
threatening or like someone from the fire and brimstone tribes. Did
they think of God as a loving father? I will let you know what I
learn.

Enjoy the holidays. Many blessings to you for all the joy of
learning you bring to Orchid.

MA