Why is Aeschylus called the Father of Tragedy?

Aeschylus is known as the "Father of Tragedy" primarily due to his fundamental innovations that transformed Greek drama into a more sophisticated artistic and intellectual form.12

Before Aeschylus, performances were limited to a single actor interacting with a chorus. Aeschylus introduced a second actor, the deuteragonist, which allowed for direct dialogue between characters, significantly increasing dramatic tension and providing greater freedom in plot construction. As noted by Aristotle in his Poetics, Aeschylus reduced the role of the chorus and established the plot as the primary focus of the play.1

Beyond these structural changes, Aeschylus elevated the genre through his masterful use of lyrical language, complex plot architecture, and the exploration of universal themes such as divine justice, moral responsibility, and the rule of law. His ability to integrate personal, social, and religious issues into dramatic conflict set a standard for tragedy that influenced the development of Western theater.1