Final answer:
Aristophanes, known as the 'Father of Comedy,' was a master satirist whose plays, including 'Lysistrata' and 'The Clouds,' served as a satirical commentary on Athenian life, particularly through the use of political and social satire.
Step-by-step explanation:
Aristophanes, a master of satire often called the 'Father of Comedy,' criticized new politics and culture using savage and cruel jests. This comic playwright was known for his sharp, conservative commentary on contemporary Athenian life, and he spared no one with his wit. Aristophanes blended comic elements from folk traditions, alongside the politics of the day, to create engaging and timeless Greek comedy. His works, which fall under Old Comedy, served as satirical social and political commentary.
His most famous play, Lysistrata, showcased his ingenuity, where the women of Athens go on a sex strike to force men to end a war. In The Clouds, he satirized the Sophists — educators and philosophers who were considered a threat to Athenian traditions. The play humorously features a character named Socrates, but not the actual philosopher, who is depicted engaging in sophistry, an activity the real Socrates criticized.
Despite his fierce satire, Aristophanes acknowledged a level of friendship with Socrates, as reported in works like Plato's Symposium. Much of Aristophanes' success derived from his audience's delight in his cleverly veiled critiques. His plays not only entertained but also prompted his audience to reflect on the cultural and political environment of Athens.