During which period was Middle Greek Comedy the dominant form?

Middle Greek Comedy emerged as a distinct form of theatre from the end of the 5th century to the middle of the 4th century B.C. This period is notable for a transition in comedic styles, moving away from the political satire and social commentary prevalent in Old Comedy, exemplified by playwrights like Aristophanes, toward a form that focused more on character-driven plots and everyday life.

During this time, the comedic structure began to feature less emphasis on public figures and more on the private lives and relationships of ordinary people, setting the stage for the later development of New Comedy. This shift is essential in understanding the evolution of comedic theatre, as it reflects broader societal changes and the shifting interests of audiences in ancient Greece.

The other periods mentioned in the choices correspond to different styles of Greek theatre, such as Old Comedy, which was earlier and characterized by its political satire and obscenity, or later periods when different theatrical forms, like New Comedy, became more prevalent. Thus, identifying the correct timeframe for Middle Greek Comedy helps place the development of comedic forms within the broader context of Greek theatrical history.