Terence

Definition

Terence was a prominent Roman playwright of the 2nd century BCE, known for his comedies that were heavily influenced by Greek New Comedy. His works often focused on themes of love, mistaken identities, and the complexities of human relationships, making him a key figure in the historical development of theater, particularly in the context of the transition from Greek to Roman theatrical traditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Terence's full name was Publius Terentius Afer, and he was originally from Carthage before moving to Rome.
2. His first play, 'Andria' (The Woman of Andros), premiered in 166 BCE and showcased his unique style and wit.
3. Terence is known for his elegant use of Latin and his ability to convey complex emotions through dialogue.
4. He is credited with introducing more sophisticated character development and psychological depth in his comedies compared to his predecessors.
5. Only six of Terence's plays have survived to modern times, but they have had a lasting impact on later European theater, influencing playwrights like Molière and Shakespeare.

Review Questions

• How did Terence’s approach to character development differ from earlier Roman playwrights like Plautus?
  • Terence's approach to character development was more nuanced and sophisticated compared to Plautus. While Plautus often relied on exaggerated stereotypes and slapstick humor, Terence created well-rounded characters with realistic emotions and motivations. This shift allowed for deeper exploration of themes such as love and social dynamics, marking an important evolution in Roman comedy.
• Discuss the significance of Terence's adaptation of Greek New Comedy in shaping Roman theatrical traditions.
  • Terence's adaptation of Greek New Comedy was significant because it helped to bridge the gap between Greek theatrical traditions and Roman audiences. By incorporating elements from Greek plays while infusing them with Roman cultural nuances, Terence created works that were relatable and engaging for his contemporaries. This not only popularized Greek themes but also laid the groundwork for future Roman playwrights to explore similar subjects with greater depth.
• Evaluate the impact of Terence’s surviving works on the evolution of European theater during the Renaissance period.
  • Terence's surviving works had a profound impact on the evolution of European theater during the Renaissance period. His emphasis on complex characters and realistic dialogue inspired playwrights like Molière and Shakespeare, who sought to develop their own styles rooted in human emotion and social commentary. As Renaissance writers looked back to classical sources for inspiration, Terence's comedies provided a model for crafting narratives that balanced humor with deeper moral and philosophical questions, ultimately influencing the trajectory of Western drama.

Related terms

Plautus:

A contemporary of Terence, Plautus was another influential Roman playwright known for his farcical comedies that often featured slapstick humor and clever wordplay.

New Comedy: A style of ancient Greek comedy that emerged in the late 4th century BCE, characterized by its focus on everyday life, romantic entanglements, and the social norms of the time.

Fabula Palliata: A genre of Roman comedy that adapted Greek plays, typically featuring plots set in Greek locations and often utilizing elements from both Greek New Comedy and Roman cultural contexts.