Theatrocracy and Revolutionary Mass according to Kostas Papaioannou

Abstract

This article explores the concept of "theatrocracy" as developed by the Greek philosopher Kostas Papaioannou to describe the active participation of the Athenian Demos in organized social life during the 5th century BC. The author analyzes how tragic theater was integrated into state functions, serving as a synthesis of tragedy and democracy that fertilized the revolutionary mass with conscious meaning. Central to the study is the role of the Tragic Myth and "Dike" (Justice), which Papaioannou identifies not just as a judicial principle but as a metaphysical force ensuring cosmic order against human "Hubris". Furthermore, the paper contrasts the Athenian model with Classicist and Elizabethan theater to demonstrate how different social structures produce varying levels of historical agency within the masses. Ultimately, the paper highlights Papaioannou's re-evaluation of "theatrocracy" from Plato's negative critique to a positive foundation for political consciousness.