This Greek poet from the sixth century B.C. reputedly originated Greek tragedy; after his name certain actors are named. Who was he?

The development of Greek tragedy is often attributed to a pivotal figure from the sixth century B.C., a poet named Thespis. Before his innovations, theatrical performances largely consisted of choruses singing and dancing in honor of the god Dionysus, known as dithyrambs. Thespis is credited with revolutionizing this format by introducing the concept of an individual performer who would step out from the chorus and engage in dialogue, effectively impersonating a character rather than merely narrating. This groundbreaking act of assuming a role, often with the aid of different masks, marked the birth of what we recognize as acting.

This shift from purely choral performances to a dialogue between a single actor and the chorus laid the foundation for dramatic storytelling. Thespis's contribution was so significant that he is often referred to as the "inventor of tragedy" and reputedly won the first documented competition for tragedy at the City Dionysia in Athens around 534 BC. His daring to portray characters on stage transformed the nature of public performance and storytelling in ancient Greece.

In recognition of his pioneering role in theatre, the term "thespian" emerged directly from his name, becoming a lasting tribute to his legacy. Today, actors and those dedicated to the dramatic arts are still known as thespians, acknowledging the ancient Greek poet who first dared to embody a character and, in doing so, originated the art form of tragedy.