choral odes
A choral ode is a lyrical poem sung by a group of performers, often found in ancient Greek theater. These odes typically express the collective thoughts and emotions of the chorus, reflecting on the events of the play. They serve to enhance the narrative and provide commentary on the themes and characters.
In classical works, such as those by Sophocles or Euripides, choral odes are integral to the structure of the performance. They are usually divided into strophes and antistrophes, allowing the chorus to move in a choreographed manner while singing. This adds a visual and auditory dimension to the storytelling.