Thespis
The legendary Greek poet and performer who is credited as the first person to appear on stage as an actor playing a character, rather than as a narrator.
Noun
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.
Meanings
Examples
Thespis revolutionized storytelling by introducing the concept of the protagonist.
History