Which Greek tragedy is the basis for more modern productions like "Romeo and Juliet" and "West Side Story"?

The idea of "star-crossed lovers" whereby two young people fall in love, even though their families do not get along, is a common part of life in society. The idea of it was set to the Greek tragedy "Pyramus and Thisbe." Ovid's is the oldest surviving version of the story, published in 8 AD.

More popular versions came into existence with the first production of "Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare in 1597. Continuing that story in more modern times is the basis of the popular Broadway hit, "West Side Story" in 1957.

In each of these stories, two innocent youngsters, aware of their differences, settle on their similarities instead. They choose to ignore the historical familial and cultural differences to continue their lives in the best way they know. Of course, they do not exist alone in the world, and others plot to keep their happiness away. The tragedy unfolds in complicated ways until both of the lovers are dead, not understanding why the other had died.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org

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7 Comments

Robert Oldenburg

And west side story is based on Romeo and Juliet

Louella Wilson

Mark Gavin, there is no assumption stated that Ovid was Greek. The Romans retold many of the Greek stories and plays. Nor is there in the link. See under Origins. Why not point out that Pyramus and Thisbe were Babylonians and not Greek or Roman?

Bob Gorby

I’m a long-standing Thibe Golf devotee.

Mark Gavin

Question setter messed up here. He read the Wikipedia entry for the play, which didn't tell him that Ovid WASN'T Greek, and proceeded to guess, showing he knows little about Greek tragedy. Don't ask questions if you don't know what you're talking about!

William Laughlin

Mark G. Feeney, Yes, you are correct. Ovid was Roman. I can't imagine why 3 players would give a thumb down unless they like to disagree with people who make accurate corrections.