Peter Wilson

Professor Peter Wilson is the William Ritchie Professor of Classics at the University of Sydney, affiliated with the Department of Classics and Ancient History within the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. His research focuses on the history of classical theatre, Greek literature from Homer to the Hellenistic age, and the sociology of Greek music. He is a member of the Vere Gordon Childe Centre and collaborates with international scholars through the Centre for Classical & Near Eastern Studies of Australia.

Wilson's education includes a BA from Sydney University and a PhD from the University of Cambridge. He has held significant grants, including an ARC Discovery Project (2010-2014) titled 'The Theatrical Revolution: The Expansion of Theatre Outside Athens,' which explored dramatic practices beyond Athens. Current projects include a collaborative work with Eric Csapo on the socio-economic history of Greek theatre.

His research interests emphasize the interplay between performance, politics, and economics in ancient Greek culture. Recent articles analyze epigraphic evidence for Athenian and regional theatrical practices, while his books (e.g., A Social and Economic History of the Theatre to 300 BC) establish frameworks for understanding ancient drama’s societal role. His work often bridges textual and archaeological sources to illuminate cultural dynamics.

Teaching includes courses such as GRKA3603 Greek Oratory and Historiography and GRKA3606 Classics of Greek Literature. His contributions to classical studies are underscored by his editorial roles in volumes like Performance, Iconography, Reception: Studies in Honour of Oliver Taplin.