Reconstructing Aristophanic Performance: Stage Properties in Acharnians

Nowhere is Aristophanes' use of stage properties more striking than in Acharnians. Drawing on recent work in performance theory, this article attempts to reexamine the staging of major scenes in Acharnians by focusing on Aristophanes' concern for sensational and symbolically charged stage properties. Physical objects in this play seem to have two primary functions: (a) they "animate" and "anchor" many of Aristophanes' jokes; and (b) they are often the major vehicle through which Aristophanes reinforces his political and cultural commentary on wartime Athens.