Terence

Definition

Terence was a prominent Roman playwright of the 2nd century BCE, known for his comedies that blended elements of Greek theater with Roman cultural themes. His works are characterized by their sophisticated language, engaging characters, and exploration of social issues such as love, family, and identity. Terence's plays contributed significantly to the development of Roman theater and influenced later European drama.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Terence was born in North Africa and brought to Rome as a slave, where he was educated and eventually became a free man and playwright.
2. His most famous works include 'Andria,' 'Heautontimorumenos,' and 'Phormio,' each exploring different aspects of human relationships.
3. Terence's plays were noted for their emphasis on character development and realistic dialogue, setting them apart from the more exaggerated style of earlier Roman comedies.
4. He is often credited with coining the phrase 'Homo sum: humani nil a me alienum puto,' which translates to 'I am human; nothing human is alien to me,' reflecting his focus on universal themes.
5. Terence's influence extends beyond Rome; his works were studied and adapted during the Renaissance, contributing to the evolution of Western drama.

Review Questions

• How did Terence’s background influence his writing and themes in his plays?
  • Terence's background as a former slave who gained freedom greatly influenced his writing style and themes. His experiences likely shaped his understanding of social dynamics and relationships, allowing him to create relatable characters that addressed issues such as love, identity, and societal expectations. This unique perspective enriched his plays, making them more complex and reflective of human experiences compared to those of his contemporaries.
• Discuss how Terence's approach to character development differed from that of earlier Roman playwrights like Plautus.
  • Terence's approach to character development was more nuanced than that of earlier Roman playwrights like Plautus, who often relied on stock characters and broad humor. In contrast, Terence focused on creating well-rounded characters with distinct personalities and motivations. His use of realistic dialogue and exploration of emotional depth allowed audiences to connect with the characters on a personal level, elevating the comedic genre beyond mere farce into more thoughtful storytelling.
• Evaluate Terence’s contribution to the evolution of drama in Western literature, particularly during the Renaissance period.
  • Terence’s contribution to the evolution of drama in Western literature is significant, especially during the Renaissance when his works were revived and studied. His emphasis on character complexity, social commentary, and refined dialogue set new standards for playwriting that influenced many playwrights, including Shakespeare. By blending Greek themes with Roman contexts, Terence established a foundation for modern comedic forms, ensuring that his influence would resonate through centuries as theater continued to evolve.

Related terms

Plautus:

Plautus was an earlier Roman playwright whose comedies often relied on farce and stock characters, serving as a key influence on Terence's work.

Atellan Farce: A form of improvisational comedy in ancient Rome that focused on exaggerated characters and themes, which laid the groundwork for later comedic genres.

Pantomime: A theatrical performance style in ancient Rome that combined music, dance, and movement to tell stories, often with themes drawn from mythology or history.