theologeion
Literally meaning "gods' platform," another contrivance for exhibiting gods or actors in a supernatural manner.
Description: Appeared as early as the fifth century B.C.. Some scholars suggest that the flat roof of the skene was a possible location of the theologeion or that a platform projected from the roof of the skene. Perhaps the dramatist preferred to use this upper story as a conventional "heaven." In the final scene of Aristophanes' THE CLOUDS, the upper level of the skene is used as the setting for the roof of Socrates' academy, suggesting that the theologeion was also used for more commonplace purposes. In the Hellenistic theater this contrivance continues to be used, though there is some uncertainty among scholars as to its location, though all agree that to be effective the theologeion must have been on or near the roof of the skene. Certain reconstructions introduce a door in the second story level or in the gable on the top of the skene from which the actor may speak. It is thought that the use of the theologeion was not common.
- Skene