Which playwrights were major writers of Greek tragedy?

The three most prominent and influential playwrights of ancient Greek tragedy are Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides.123

These dramatists were central to the development of tragedy in 5th-century BCE Athens, where their works were performed at festivals such as the Great Dionysia. Each contributed significantly to the evolution of the genre:24

• Aeschylus (c. 525–456 BCE): Often called the "Father of Tragedy," he is credited with introducing a second actor, which allowed for more complex interaction beyond the chorus. His work, such as the Oresteia, often focused on the relationship between human action and the divine.345
• Sophocles (c. 496–406 BCE): He refined the form by introducing a third actor and increasing the size of the chorus. His tragedies are noted for their mastery of dramatic movement and focus on the decisive, often tragic, moments in the lives of heroic figures.143
• Euripides (c. 480–406 BCE): Known for his psychological realism and critical approach to traditional myths, he reduced the role of the chorus and brought a more contemporary, human perspective to his characters.346

While Thespis is historically credited with inventing tragedy by introducing the first actor, the enduring legacy of the genre is primarily defined by the achievements of these three masters.234