Classical Stuff You Should Know: Episode 276 - Dyskolos (My Favorite DJ) Release Date: March 11, 2025

Hosts:
A.J. Hanenburg, Graeme Donaldson, and Thomas Magbee

Introduction

In Episode 276 of Classical Stuff You Should Know, hosts A.J. Hanenburg, Graeme Donaldson, and Thomas Magbee delve into the world of ancient Greek comedy by exploring Menander's play Dyskolos ("The Grouch"). This episode not only provides an in-depth analysis of the play but also contrasts it with the works of Aristophanes, offering listeners insights into the evolution of classical comedy from its satirical roots to more character-driven narratives.

Opening Banter (00:10 - 05:20)

The episode opens with the hosts engaging in light-hearted banter about feeling grouchy—a fitting prelude to the episode's focus on Dyskolos. Graeme expresses his grouchiness due to Lent and adverse weather conditions in Austin, including extreme temperature fluctuations and high pollen counts, which he humorously attributes to his discomfort:

Graeme Donaldson (00:05:07): "If everyone lived like me, law courts would no longer exist. Men would no more haul each other off to prison. War would cease. Then all would live content with less."

A.J and Thomas join in, sharing their own grievances about allergies and the challenges of living in Austin, setting a relatable tone for the discussion ahead.

Introduction to Dyskolos and Menander (05:20 - 12:00)

A.J introduces Dyskolos, highlighting it as a significant work by Menander, a prominent Greek playwright whose plays mark the transition from Old to New Comedy. Unlike Aristophanes' biting satire in Old Comedy, Menander's works focus more on everyday life and personal relationships.

A.J. Hanenburg (05:21): "It's a play about a grouchy man who falls down a well. And so watch out, Donaldson, if you're…"

The hosts discuss the scarcity of surviving Greek comedies, noting that while Aristophanes has a more extensive surviving oeuvre, Menander's Dyskolos is a rare and largely intact example of New Comedy, rediscovered in the mid-20th century through the Bodmer Papyri.

Reading and Analyzing Dyskolos (12:00 - 35:00)

The hosts collaboratively read excerpts from Dyskolos, bringing the characters to life through their performances. They portray the central figure, Naaman—the grouchy man—alongside other characters like Sostratos, who seeks to marry Naaman's daughter, and Gorgeous, Naaman's stepson.

Notable Quote:

Graham Donaldson (23:49): "Sometimes hot people are great."

This humorous exchange underscores the show's blend of classical analysis and modern humor, making ancient texts accessible and entertaining.

As they progress through the play, the hosts dissect key moments:

• Naaman's Misanthropy: Initially portrayed as a solitary and irritable farmer, Naaman's character embodies the archetype of the grumpy patriarch common in both ancient and modern storytelling.

• The Catalyst for Change: Naaman's near-death experience after falling into a well, from which he is rescued by Sostratos and Gorgeous, serves as the turning point. This incident forces Naaman to confront his loneliness and reevaluate his disdain for others.

• Themes of Community and Transformation: The play emphasizes the importance of human connection and the transformative power of compassion, reflecting broader societal values that resonate across millennia.

A.J. Hanenburg (28:31): "If everyone behaved like me, law courts would no longer exist. Men would no more haul each other off to prison. War would cease. Then all would live content with less."

This line encapsulates Naaman's initial worldview and sets the stage for his eventual character development.

Comparing Old and New Comedy (35:00 - 50:00)

The hosts compare Menander's Dyskolos with Aristophanes' works, noting the shift from the loud, satirical Old Comedy to the more nuanced and character-focused New Comedy. While Aristophanes used comedy as a vehicle for political and social commentary, Menander focused on domestic scenarios and personal relationships, paving the way for modern comedic storytelling.

Thomas Magbee (38:05): "It feels similar to, like, you know, the humor and the curt little phrases…"

They discuss how Dyskolos aligns with the archetypes seen in today's sitcoms, balancing humor with meaningful character arcs. This evolution signifies a maturation in comedic storytelling, moving towards relatable narratives that prioritize emotional depth over sharp satire.

Themes and Modern Relevance (50:00 - 56:00)

A.J, Graeme, and Thomas reflect on the timeless themes presented in Dyskolos, such as the importance of community, the pitfalls of isolation, and the journey from misanthropy to goodwill. They draw parallels between Naaman's transformation and contemporary societal issues, emphasizing the enduring relevance of classical literature.

A.J. Hanenburg (54:28): "Sometimes hot people are great."

Through their discussion, the hosts highlight how ancient comedies like Dyskolos continue to offer valuable lessons on human nature and interpersonal relationships, making them as pertinent today as they were in antiquity.

Conclusion and Takeaways (56:00 - 58:04)

Wrapping up the episode, the hosts summarize the key insights garnered from Dyskolos, praising its charming narrative and the profound character development that underscores its comedic facade. They encourage listeners to explore Menander's works, appreciating the blend of humor and humanity that defines New Comedy.

Thomas Magbee (56:50): "Gorgeous shows signs of wanting to intervene."

The episode concludes on a light-hearted note, maintaining the show's signature blend of scholarly discussion and playful interaction.

Notable Quotes

• Graeme Donaldson (00:06:07): "If everyone lived like me, law courts would no longer exist. Men would no more haul each other off to prison. War would cease. Then all would live content with less." (Timestamp: 06:07)

• Graham Donaldson (23:49): "Sometimes hot people are great." (Timestamp: 23:49)

• A.J. Hanenburg (54:28): "Sometimes hot people are great." (Timestamp: 54:28)

Final Thoughts

Episode 276 of Classical Stuff You Should Know offers a delightful exploration of Menander's Dyskolos, bridging the gap between ancient theatrical traditions and modern comedic sensibilities. Through engaging discussions and lively readings, the hosts provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the play's themes, its place within the classical canon, and its relevance to contemporary audiences.

For those passionate about classical literature or simply seeking an entertaining dive into ancient humor, this episode serves as both an informative and enjoyable listen.

Stay tuned for more episodes where A.J., Graeme, and Thomas continue to unravel the rich tapestry of the classical world, making it accessible and enjoyable for educators and enthusiasts alike.