What were periaktoi used for in ancient Greek theater?

Answer 1

Periaktoi were used in ancient Greek theater as a form of scenic device. They were three-sided prisms or columns that could be rotated to display different scenes or backgrounds. These periaktoi would often contain painted or decorated panels on each side, showing various locations such as a city, a forest, or the interior of a building. By rotating them, the actors and audience could quickly and easily change the setting of a scene. The periaktoi were an important tool for creating a sense of realism and providing visual cues for the audience to understand the location and context of the play.