parabasis
noun
- a direct address to the audience by the chorus in ancient Greek comedy, used to express the playwright's views or satire.
- Scholars analyze the parabasis as a unique dramatic device for authorial commentary.
- The chorus delivered a lengthy parabasis criticizing the city's leaders.
- The abrupt shift to a parabasis surprised the Athenian audience with its directness.
- In Aristophanes' plays, the parabasis often broke the fourth wall to comment on contemporary politics.