Thespis

This term refers specifically to the historical and legendary figure of ancient Greece. It is a proper noun used to denote the origin of Western acting, marking the transition from choral narration to individual characterization.

While the word "thespian" is commonly used as a general term for an actor, "Thespis" itself is reserved for the person. It is almost exclusively found in academic, theatrical, or historical contexts discussing the evolution of drama.