Phormio; or, The Scheming Parasite by Terence is a classic Roman comedy that follows the antics of Phormio, a clever and cunning parasite who schemes his way through various situations to achieve his own selfish goals. The play is filled with witty dialogue, mistaken identities, and clever plot twists that keep the audience engaged from start to finish.

Terence masterfully portrays the character of Phormio, making him both loathsome and likable at the same time. His quick wit and ability to manipulate those around him make him a fascinating character to watch. The supporting cast is also well-developed, with each character playing a specific role in the unfolding of the plot.

The themes of deception, greed, and manipulation are prevalent throughout the play, showcasing the darker side of human nature. However, Terence manages to infuse humor and lightheartedness into the story, making it an enjoyable and entertaining read.

Overall, Phormio; or, The Scheming Parasite is a well-written and engaging play that offers a glimpse into the complexities of human relationships and the lengths some will go to achieve their desires. Terence's clever storytelling and sharp wit make this play a timeless classic that is sure to entertain readers for generations to come.

Book Description:
"Chremes and Demipho are two aged Athenians, brothers. Nausistrata, the wife of Chremes, is a wealthy woman, possessed of large estates in the island of Lemnos. Chremes, who goes thither yearly to receive the rents, meets with a poor woman there, whom he secretly marries, and has by her a daughter called Phanium: while engaged in this intrigue, Chremes passes at Lemnos by the name of Stilpho. By his wife, Nausistrata, at Athens, Chremes has a son, named Phædria, and his brother has a son, named Antipho." Got all that? And so now, "Phanium having now arrived at her fifteenth year, the two brothers privately agree that she shall be brought to Athens and married to Antipho." - Summary by Translator and ToddHW Cast list: Demipho, Aged Athenian, brother: Algy Pug Chremes, Aged Athenian, brother: Alan Mapstone Antipho, son of Demipho: VocalPenguin Phædria, son of Chremes: Adrian Stephens Phormio, a Parasite: ToddHW Geta, servant of Demipho: Sonia Davus, a servant: Matthew Reece Hegio, Advocate: Son of the Exiles Cratinus, Advocate: Dave Lantz Crito, Advocate: David Purdy Dorio, a Procurer: Nemo Nausistrata, the wife of Chremes: Eva Davis Sophrona, the nurse of Phanium: Availle Stage Directions: ambsweet13 Editing: ToddHW