Sir: As a viewer who watched with great interest what
Richard Ingrams described as `this ridiculous production' — the Oresteia of Aeschylus — I feel I must comment on his so-called criticism.
If Mr Ingrams did not know that classical Greek drama was presented by all-male casts, that masks were worn, and that the lines — in particular those of the chorus were spoken to a rhythmic beat, then I am not surprised (considering his past form) that he did not trouble to investigate the subject before pouring scorn on the programme. In fact Peter Hall's production kept closely to what experts consider the original performances to have been like.
The Oresteia may not represent popular taste, but Channel 4 was created to serve a minority audience, and this was a rewarding experience for students and anyone interested in the culture of Classical Greece.
R. B. Biggs
2 Corbridge Road, C hildwall, Liverpool
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