Amphitryo, Asinaria, Aulularia, Bacchides, Captivi Amphitryon, The Comedy of Asses, The Pot of Gold, The Two Bacchises, The Captives   By: Titus Maccius Plautus (254 BC - 184 BC)

Amphitryo, Asinaria, Aulularia, Bacchides, Captivi Amphitryon, The Comedy of Asses, The Pot of Gold, The Two Bacchises, The Captives, collectively known as the plays by Titus Maccius Plautus, are a treasure trove of ancient Roman comedy. With their witty dialogue, clever plot twists, and timeless themes, Plautus showcases his storytelling prowess in this collection.

One of the standout plays in this collection is "Amphitryo," a comedic retelling of the mythological story of Amphitryon and his wife Alcmene. Plautus infuses the play with humor and a touch of the divine, as the god Mercury takes on the appearance of Amphitryon to woo Alcmene. The play explores themes of mistaken identity, deception, and the power of love. Plautus' engaging and fast-paced narrative keeps the readers on their toes, eagerly turning the pages to see how the tangled web of misunderstandings and mischief will unravel.

Another delightful play in this collection is "The Pot of Gold," which revolves around the misadventures of Euclio, a misanthropic old man who stumbles upon a pot of gold. Plautus brilliantly crafts a comedy where greed, mistrust, and the pursuit of wealth take center stage. Through witty wordplay and relatable characters, Plautus presents a light-hearted commentary on the timeless human vices of avarice and suspicion. Readers will find themselves chuckling at the absurdity of the situations and cheering for the underdog, hoping for a happy resolution.

Plautus' comedies are known for their vivid characters, and "The Comedy of Asses" delivers in this regard. The play revolves around a man named Pistoclere, who, through a series of hilarious mishaps, ends up transformed into a donkey. Plautus masterfully depicts Pistoclere struggling to regain his human form while encountering a colorful cast of characters, including a group of thieves and a courtesan. The play showcases Plautus' ability to create memorable and dynamic characters, using their quirks and idiosyncrasies to provoke laughter and entertain the audience.

In all the plays in this collection, Plautus explores universal themes such as love, greed, deception, and the complexities of human relationships. Through his clever use of language, wordplay, and physical comedy, Plautus's plays have stood the test of time. His works continue to be performed and appreciated across the world, reminding us of the enduring appeal of a good comedy.

Overall, Plautus' collection of plays in "Amphitryo, Asinaria, Aulularia, Bacchides, Captivi Amphitryon, The Comedy of Asses, The Pot of Gold, The Two Bacchises, The Captives" is a delightful and entertaining read for anyone who appreciates classic comedy. Plautus' wit and storytelling skills shine through in each play, taking readers on a humorous journey into ancient Rome. Whether you are familiar with Roman literature or new to it, this collection is a must-read that will leave you laughing and yearning for more.

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[Transcriber’s Note: The Index of Proper Names is not included in this e text... Continue reading book >>