Plautus: The Darker Comedies. Bacchides, Casina, and Truculentus : Book Review

Plautus, an ancient Roman playwright, left behind an enduring legacy of comedic plays that have entertained audiences for centuries. This particular book allows modern readers to experience his wit and humor firsthand. Filled with hilarious situations, vibrant characters, and clever wordplay, it offers a delightful read for anyone who appreciates comedy.

One notable aspect of this book is Plautus' talent for creating relatable characters that resonated with audiences in ancient Rome and continue to do so today. From quick-witted slaves to foolish old men, his characters are both amusing and endearing. Plautus skillfully plays with the conventions of his time, incorporating mistaken identities, love triangles, and bawdy humor to keep readers entertained and laughing from start to finish.

Plautus also excels in employing wordplay and clever banter throughout his plays. The dialogue is sharp and fast-paced, filled with puns, witty comebacks, and comedic misunderstandings. This adds an extra layer of enjoyment for readers as they try to keep up with the rapid exchanges and witty wordplay.

Moreover, the plots of Plautus' plays are full of unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers engaged and intrigued. He adeptly weaves together multiple storylines, creating a sense of anticipation and surprise. While some situations may seem familiar or predictable, Plautus always manages to infuse them with his unique spin, introducing unexpected elements and comic relief.

In conclusion, this book effectively showcases Plautus' brilliance as a comedic playwright. Through relatable characters, clever wordplay, and engaging plots, he continues to captivate readers and demonstrate why his works have endured through time. Whether one is an aficionado of ancient Roman literature or simply seeks a good laugh, this book is a definite must-read.

What are readers saying?

Plautus, the renowned Roman playwright celebrated for his comedic works, has a book titled "Plautus: The Comedies" that has garnered mostly positive reviews. Readers appreciate Plautus's cleverness and ability to elicit laughter through his writing. Many reviewers note that his comedies have a timeless quality and remain relevant even in the present day. They particularly enjoy the humor-infused language and well-crafted dialogue that breathe life into his characters. The impeccable comedic timing of his plays is also lauded, which enhances the overall enjoyment for the audience.

The engaging and lively plots are frequently mentioned in the reviews. Plautus is commended for his skillful creation of intricate storylines that are filled with amusing situations, clever wordplay, and mistaken identities. Reviewers find these plots highly entertaining and capable of capturing their attention from beginning to end.

Plautus's characterization is another aspect that resonated with readers. They admire his portrayal of diverse personalities and social classes, resulting in amusing interactions among the characters. The witty exchanges and comedic antics add depth and charm to the overall reading experience, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

The reviews also highlight Plautus's writing style, praising his ability to deliver comedic punchlines and clever wordplay. His humor is described as both intelligent and clever, demonstrating his mastery of comedic writing. Readers consistently find themselves entertained and amused by his comedic delivery.

While the majority of reviews are positive, a few readers acknowledge that the language and cultural context of Plautus's works may pose a challenge for modern readers. Nonetheless, they recognize the historical and literary value of these plays and emphasize their enjoyment despite these potential difficulties.

PlautusBook ClassicComedy AncientRomanPlaywright