"The Rope and Other Plays" is an engaging collection of five comedic plays by Plautus, a renowned Roman playwright. Translated by E.F. Watling, this collection brings to life the wit and cleverness of Plautus' storytelling in ancient Roman theater.
In "The Rope," we are introduced to a cunning slave who uses his intelligence to outsmart his greedy master. Through a series of hilarious and outrageous schemes, the slave manages to get the better of his master. "The Pot of Gold" centers around the trials and tribulations of a wealthy old miser who repeatedly finds himself outwitted by those who seek his hidden treasure.
"Amphitryon" takes us on a humorous journey of mistaken identity as the gods Jupiter and Mercury assume the guise of mortals, leading to chaos and confusion amongst the characters. "The Prisoners" follows the comedic exploits of two prisoners who go to great lengths, even faking their deaths, in order to escape their captors.
Available on Audible
Lastly, "Casina" presents a tale of romantic entanglements and mistaken identities, as two men compete for the affection of the same woman. Plautus' plays are characterized by their witty dialogue, clever wordplay, and exaggerated characters, all of which shine through in this collection.
"The Rope and Other Plays" provides an enjoyable glimpse into ancient Roman theater, showcasing Plautus' comedic genius. The translations by E.F. Watling capture the essence of the original plays, making them accessible and entertaining for readers today. Whether you have an appreciation for ancient literature or simply enjoy a good comedy, this collection is sure to bring a smile to your face.
What are readers saying?
The book "The Rope and Other Plays" written by Plautus receives generally positive reviews from readers who appreciate the author's wit, humor, and captivating storytelling. Plautus is commended for his ability to create humorous situations and employ clever wordplay throughout his plays. Readers find his works highly entertaining, filled with laughter and enjoyment. The comedic nature of the plays is often highlighted as a significant aspect, with readers frequently expressing how they burst into laughter due to the antics of the characters.
Another aspect that receives praise in the reviews is Plautus' talent for crafting relatable and memorable characters. Reviewers note that the characters are well-developed and engaging, driving the plots forward with their actions and dialogue. Plautus is also commended for incorporating social commentary into his work, deepening the stories and provoking thoughtful reflection from readers.
The reviews often mention the lively and fast-paced nature of Plautus' plays, with readers consistently noting how engaging they are from beginning to end. The witty dialogue and comedic situations contribute to the overall flow and enjoyment of the reading experience.
Some reviewers specifically highlight "The Rope," one of the plays featured in the book, as an outstanding piece. They praise its clever plot twists and comedic moments, emphasizing its entertainment value.
In conclusion, the reviews for Plautus' "The Rope and Other Plays" showcase his great talent for wit, humor, engaging storytelling, relatable characters, and a lively pace. Readers find his plays highly enjoyable, funny, and memorable, making this book a recommended read for fans of comedic literature.
TheRopeAndOtherPlays DramaticMasterpieces ClassicTheatre