Answer and Explanation:
The first classical drama was Greek drama. Greek drama emerged in ancient Greece around the 5th century BCE and laid the foundation for Western theater. It consisted of two main forms: tragedy and comedy.
Tragedy, the more serious and somber form, focused on themes such as fate, morality, and the human condition. Prominent Greek tragedians include Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides. Famous plays from this era include Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex" and Euripides' "Medea."
Comedy, on the other hand, was a lighter and humorous form of drama. It often involved social satire and mocked societal conventions and figures. Aristophanes, a renowned Greek playwright, is known for his comedic works like "The Birds" and "Lysistrata."
Greek drama was performed during religious festivals and showcased in open-air amphitheaters. It had a significant impact on subsequent theatrical traditions, including Roman drama, which developed later.
In summary, Greek drama, including both tragedy and comedy, was the first classical drama and had a profound influence on the development of theater in Western civilization.