Plautus

Definition

Plautus was a Roman playwright active in the 3rd and 2nd centuries BCE, known for his comedies that are among the earliest examples of Roman drama. His works are characterized by their lively characters, clever wordplay, and intricate plots that often involve mistaken identities and humorous misunderstandings. Plautus adapted Greek plays for Roman audiences, blending cultural elements to create entertaining performances that laid the groundwork for future theatrical traditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Plautus wrote over 30 plays, of which 21 have survived in complete form, showcasing his significant contribution to the genre of comedy in Roman literature.
2. His comedies were performed in open-air theaters and were popular among all social classes, often appealing to both the elite and the common people.
3. Plautus is famous for his use of stock characters, such as the clever slave, the braggart soldier, and the miserly father, which became staples in later comedic works.
4. The influence of Plautus can be seen in later playwrights like Shakespeare and Molière, who borrowed themes and characters from his works.
5. One of his most notable plays is 'Miles Gloriosus' (The Braggart Soldier), which exemplifies his trademark style of humor and complex plot structure.

Review Questions

• How did Plautus contribute to the development of Roman drama through his unique style and thematic choices?
  • Plautus significantly influenced the development of Roman drama by introducing a lively and humorous style that incorporated complex plots and vibrant characters. His ability to adapt Greek comedies for Roman audiences allowed him to create relatable stories filled with misunderstandings and comedic situations. The use of stock characters in his plays not only made them accessible but also set a foundation for character archetypes that would be used by later playwrights in both Roman and European theater.
• Compare and contrast the comedic styles of Plautus and Terence and their respective impacts on Roman literature.
  • While both Plautus and Terence were significant figures in Roman comedy, their styles differ considerably. Plautus is known for his energetic performances, wordplay, and reliance on slapstick humor, appealing to a broad audience. In contrast, Terence's works are marked by a more subtle approach to comedy, focusing on character development and moral themes. This distinction not only shaped their individual legacies but also reflected the evolution of Roman literature, with Plautus laying the groundwork for comedic elements that Terence would refine.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of Plautus's work on modern theater and identify how his themes resonate in contemporary storytelling.
  • Plautus's influence on modern theater is profound, as many elements from his plays continue to appear in contemporary storytelling. His use of mistaken identities, complex plots filled with humor, and relatable stock characters can be seen in various modern comedies, from stage productions to films. By establishing a formula for comedic narrative that resonates with audiences across generations, Plautus helped shape the comedic tradition that persists today. The themes of love, deception, and social critique found in his works remain relevant, showcasing the timeless nature of his storytelling.

Related terms

Roman Comedy: A genre of ancient Roman theater that primarily focuses on humorous situations, often derived from Greek New Comedy, featuring stock characters and themes related to love, family, and social class.

Fabula Palliata: A type of Roman play that is based on Greek models, specifically the New Comedy, characterized by its use of Greek settings and characters.

Terence:

A Roman playwright who followed Plautus, known for his more refined style and focus on character development, often considered Plautus's literary counterpart.