Platus 'Power In The Play Plautus'

The role of comedy has been an integral part of our lives since ancient Rome (including much earlier times as well). It is meant to bring us slightly out of our own reality, for a brief period of time, and potentially allow us to learn a lesson or two as well. The time period that Platus was writing in was known for being a very erratic, and turbulent, for Rome. Multiple wars were occurring; including those between Greek kings, and that of the Punic wars (Four Plays 2). During this time of development, many problems came in the form of a power struggle. To become a great writer, even those of which who wrote comedic plays, it is essential to speak about the current times. Plautus did exactly that; by speaking much about the theme of power,

Between the two comedies, Amphitryon and Pseudolus, several forms of power can be established. Some of these forms can be seen through all cultures, while some can be directly and exclusively attributed to Rome. In both of these instances, Plautus creates a sphere of questioning that would change the ideas and values of many people. Plautus performed many of his works at festivals that honored the gods (5). During this time of happiness and glory, where many people of all social classes were attentive whilst enjoying a comedic play; Plautus was able to instill awe, hope, and inspiration to some; while forcing others to contemplate their very own

He is very headstrong; confident, that he has the ability to help his friend/master Calidorus retrieve his dearest love Phoenicium, from the evil master, Ballio (Pseudolus 1-32). As he goes on through the thought-process of his plan, his chief-master makes a very bold and fearless bet. Pseudolus is so convinced that he will be able to deceive everyone and fetch Phoenicium, he tells Simo ahead of time that he will be swindled (510). Simo, like any other master, can’t see any possible way that his own slave could dupe himself; especially after telling him ahead of time. Believing this, Simo agrees to let Pseudolus go free, in addition to paying off the pimp, Ballio, if he is indeed successful (530-537). Pseudolus defies most of the audience’s belief (including our very own) by being able to devise and execute such a complex and galvanizing plan. It is in this shock that helps slaves dream and realize what they can accomplish; while masters stumble upon how a slave could be so intelligent and wise.
The relationship between Simo and Pseudolus, as seen above, runs throughout the entire play. This relationship inspires and instills confidence into slaves (and others in similar situations); while at the same time, causes masters to take a second glance at their own, and question how they ultimately treat their