Breaking Plates in Greece: Traditions and Modern Transformations

The ancient Greek custom of breaking plates, a tradition deeply rooted in celebrations, has undergone significant changes over the decades. When once it was a vibrant and symbolic gesture associated with joy and the release of negative energy, it now is mostly a thing of the past. This article explores how this tradition has evolved and the reasons behind its decline, providing insight into modern Greek cultural practices.

Tradition and Its Decline

The act of breaking plates, known as pleiston klephto, was originally a ritual performed at weddings and festivals. Participants would throw plates at each other, believing these actions would symbolize the breaking of bad luck and the welcoming of good fortune. However, this joyful custom became impractical, if not dangerous, as safety concerns and mess became significant issues.

In recent years, venues have started discouraging or outright banning this practice. The primary reasons for this ban are safety considerations and the resultant mess. Modern celebrations have adopted more contemporary forms of expression such as dancing, fireworks, or even the purchase of expensive flowers and Champagne to mark special occasions.

Modern Traditions

While the traditional act of breaking plates has diminished, certain modern customs have taken its place, albeit in a more localized or tourist-oriented context. For instance, in tourist areas, one might still find scattered instances of this practice, but it is far less common than before.

Breaking Plates Today

The frequency of breaking plates is so rare that I only recall witnessing this on 'Greek nights,' which are events specifically themed around Greek culture and tradition. Even then, it is not as prevalent as it once was, thanks to stringent laws that have been in place since 1969.

It is important to note that the act of breaking plates in public spaces for entertainment has been outlawed due to safety concerns. No one wants shards of porcelain or glass, or even the pieces of cheap, easily broken plates, flying around the dance floor. This practice was common for a couple of decades but is now almost obsolete.

Modern Replacements

Modern celebrations often substitute the act of breaking plates with other forms of expression. For instance, in nightclubs, a popular alternative is the throwing of overpriced trays of flowers, typically carnations, as a way of showing one's excitement over the performance. These flowers typically end up rotting on the dance floor, creating an inconvenient waste.

For the most extravagant and ritualistic displays, many opt for the opening of Champagne bottles in special events. These bottles, often cheap and purpose-made for the occasion, are ceremonially opened, then left to spoil. This practice not only symbolizes extravagance but also serves as a reminder that certain actions are purely symbolic, meant more for show than function.

Other Modern Customs

Another common practice at private events, particularly weddings, is the 'rain of cash.' Participants bring small denominations of cash, often single-dollar bills, to shower the bride or groom as a gesture of goodwill. While it is not considered a tradition per se, it remains a popular and affectionate practice among friends and family members.

It's worth noting that this practice is not as common or widespread as the breaking of plates. It serves more as a personalized and intimate gesture, rather than a shared cultural tradition.

Conclusion

While the tradition of breaking plates has largely disappeared from modern Greek celebrations, its remnants still exist in various forms. The evolution of this custom reflects broader changes in cultural practices, driven by a combination of safety concerns and a shift towards more sophisticated forms of celebration. Despite these changes, the underlying spirit of joy and community remains prevalent in modern Greek culture.