The amphitheater is a building for mass spectacles of the ancient period. There are two similar, but not exactly the same types of architectural structures, for the name of which the word "amphitheater" is used. These are Roman amphitheaters in which the arena is surrounded by descending rows of visual places, as well as a modern structure similar to the ancient Greek theater.
Etymology of the word
The name "amphitheater" comes from the ancient Greek prefix amphi-, meaning "around" and "on both sides", and the word theatron, which means "place for viewing." In the modern world, by this word is understood an integral part of the auditorium of the theater, which is located behind and slightly above the ground.
Varieties of amphitheaters
Ancient Roman amphitheaters were intended for viewing sports spectacles. As a rule, these were the battles of gladiators. Such facilities can be compared with modern stadiums. Their name is explained by the fact that the amphitheater resembles in shape two theaters connected together.
Modern amphitheaters are designed for theatrical performances and concerts. They resemble the traditional structure of the theater building, in which the visual rows in the form of a smaller arch than a semicircle are located in front of the stage.
The amphitheater is also called the construction of the ancient Greek theater. The ancient stage for performances is interesting in that even in the back row, the audience perfectly heard the voice of the actor. The secret to such good acoustics was the limestone, which made up the public space. This material created an acoustic filter, drowning out the noise of the crowd and amplifying the voice of the actor. A colorful example of such an amphitheater is a theater in the Greek city of Epidaurus.
Typically, amphitheaters are built by people, but sometimes a natural site is equipped for the places of spectacles. Such amphitheaters are called natural.
