Features a varied selection of one of the supreme comic writers of the Roman world, Plautus' (c.254-184 BC) finest plays, from the comedy Pseudolus, The Prisoners, and The Brothers Menaechmus, to The Pot of Gold.
Plautus Books
Plautus was a pioneering figure in Roman comedy, whose works represent the earliest complete surviving Latin literature. His plays, known as palliata comoedia, are characterized by wit and vibrant dialogue that profoundly influenced subsequent dramatists. His distinctive style and humor establish him as a cornerstone of Roman drama. The term 'Plautine' today signifies works directly by him or those inspired by his unique theatrical legacy.
Plautus II
With an English Translation by Paul Nixon
Selected Plays
- 380 pages
- 14 hours of reading
The collection showcases the comedic brilliance of Plautus, a pivotal figure in Roman theatre known for adapting Greek stories while infusing them with contemporary Roman flair. Emphasizing everyday life over philosophical themes, his plays feature early examples of slapstick humor and clever wordplay. This edition includes eight representative plays, translated by Paul Nixon and Henry Thomas Riley, highlighting Plautus's influence on future theatrical giants like Moliere and Shakespeare. It is printed on premium acid-free paper, ensuring durability.
Focusing on accessibility, this book is a reproduction of a historical work designed for readers with impaired vision. Published by Megali, a house dedicated to producing large print editions, it aims to enhance the reading experience for those who may struggle with standard text sizes. The commitment to preserving historical literature while making it more accessible underscores the importance of inclusivity in reading.
Goldtopf-Komödie. Aulularia
- 112 pages
- 4 hours of reading
L'Avaro
- 147 pages
- 6 hours of reading
In Arpagone, Il protagonista della commedia, l'avarizia ha soffocato ogni sentimento e offuscato ogni residuo barlume di coscienza. Sordido, autoritario, egoista, egli progetta di sistemare i suoi due figli, Elisa e Cleante, secondo il proprio tornaconto, senza alcun rispetto per la loro volontà e i loro affetti. Il denaro è il suo demone, il suo assoluto, la passione che io devasta. Dietro la figura tradizionale dell'avaro, che molto deve a Plauto, Molière lascia intravedere un personaggio del XVII secolo, un ricco borghese parigino con l'anima del finanziere e dell'affarista che sarà propria dei suoi epigoni balzachiani, da Grandet a Mercadet. Molière non è un censore dei vizi né un pedante apologeta della moderazione: si limita a ritrarre gli uomini come sono, a disegnare campioni di dissennatezza, monomaniaci in bilico tra commedia e tragedia che suscitano il riso ma anche amare riflessioni sulla natura umana.
Amphitruo
- 160 pages
- 6 hours of reading
»Amphitruo«, von Plautus selbst im Prolog als »Tragikomödie« bezeichnet, ist für die Geschichte des europäischen Theaters wichtig geworden. Molière, Kleist, Giraudoux, Hacks sind die berühmtesten Nachahmer des antiken Doppelgänger-Stoffes.
