Aeschylus, often regarded as the father of Greek tragedy, was a seminal playwright in ancient Greece, born around 525 BCE in Eleusis. His revolutionary contributions to drama include introducing the second actor, thus expanding the potential for plot development and intricate character interactions. Aeschylus wrote approximately 70 to 90 plays, although only seven have survived in complete form, including masterpieces like "The Oresteia" trilogy and "Prometheus Bound." His works, known for their profound themes, complex characters, and poetic language, have profoundly influenced Western literature and theater. Aeschylus passed away in 456 BCE, leaving a lasting legacy.