Aeschylus, often regarded as the "Father of Tragedy," was a pivotal figure in the development of ancient Greek drama. Born around 525 BCE in Eleusis, a town near Athens, Aeschylus emerged from a society that was beginning to explore the depths of human experience through performance. He died in 456 BCE, likely in Gela, Sicily, leaving behind a profound legacy that would influence countless playwrights and poets.

Aeschylus’s early life is somewhat shrouded in mystery, but it is known that he came from a noble family. His upbringing in Eleusis, a site renowned for its religious significance and the Eleusinian Mysteries, likely shaped his worldview and artistic vision. He served as a soldier in the Persian Wars, which would later inform the themes of heroism and suffering in his works.

His literary career began in the 6th century BCE when he started to compete in the City Dionysia, a festival honoring the god Dionysus. Aeschylus is credited with introducing the second actor, allowing for dramatic dialogue instead of solely relying on a chorus. This innovation transformed the theatrical landscape. Among his notable works are the "Oresteia" trilogy, which includes "Agamemnon," "The Libation Bearers," and "The Eumenides," as well as "Prometheus Bound." The themes of fate, justice, and the relationship between gods and humanity permeate his plays.

Aeschylus's personal life remains largely undocumented. He had a family, with sons who would also engage in the theatrical arts, but little else is known about his private affairs. His enduring influence on literature and theater is undeniable, as he laid the groundwork for future generations of playwrights, including Sophocles and Euripides, shaping the trajectory of Western drama.