Definition

A section of a choral ode in ancient Greek drama that is sung while the chorus moves in the opposite direction from the strophe, or a similar part in poetry that follows a specific stanza form.

Example

In the performance, the chorus beautifully executed the antistrophe, enhancing the emotional impact of the scene.

Conversation

I was reading about Greek drama, and I came across the term antistrophe.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It's the part of the choral ode that moves in the opposite direction from the strophe.

That sounds interesting! I love learning about different literary terms.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Antistrophe is formed from "anti-" (meaning against) and "strophe" (from Greek "strophē", meaning a turn or a verse). The term originally referred to a part of a Greek choral ode that is sung in response to a previous strophe, thus creating a turn or counterpoint in the performance.

Memory Tip

Think of 'anti-' meaning against and 'strophe' meaning a turn — this helps you remember that 'antistrophe' refers to a response or turn in a choral performance.

Visually Confused Words