Parasites

Definition

In the context of Plautine comedy, parasites refer to comedic characters who are often portrayed as sycophants or opportunists, typically relying on the generosity of wealthier individuals. These characters add humor to the plays by exploiting social dynamics and showcasing the absurdity of human behavior. The presence of parasites emphasizes themes such as greed, social status, and deception, often providing comic relief through their exaggerated personalities and antics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Parasites in Plautine comedies often serve as foils to the main characters, highlighting their flaws and foibles.
2. These characters frequently engage in witty banter and clever wordplay, making them some of the most memorable figures in Plautus' plays.
3. The role of the parasite often reflects societal hierarchies, as they navigate their dependence on wealthier patrons while also critiquing those very patrons.
4. Parasites often find themselves in humorous predicaments due to their schemes backfiring, showcasing the unpredictability of life.
5. Plautine parasites can be seen as early examples of what would later evolve into modern comedic archetypes in theatre and film.

Review Questions

• How do parasites function within Plautine comedies to enhance themes of social status and greed?
  • Parasites play a crucial role in amplifying themes of social status and greed by portraying characters who are dependent on wealthier individuals for their survival. Their exaggerated personalities and schemes highlight the absurd lengths they will go to in order to gain favor or financial support. This dependence often results in comedic situations that reveal the folly of both the parasites and their patrons, creating a rich commentary on human behavior within a societal framework.
• Evaluate the comedic techniques used by Plautine parasites to engage audiences and deliver humor.
  • Plautine parasites utilize various comedic techniques such as witty dialogue, clever wordplay, and physical humor to engage audiences. Their interactions are filled with irony and satire, as they navigate complex social dynamics while attempting to outsmart their wealthier counterparts. The humor is often derived from their failures and misadventures, which serve to entertain while simultaneously critiquing societal norms regarding class and dependence.
• Discuss how the portrayal of parasites in Plautine comedy reflects broader societal issues in ancient Rome.
  • The portrayal of parasites in Plautine comedy not only serves to entertain but also reflects broader societal issues in ancient Rome, such as class disparity and social mobility. These characters exemplify the struggles faced by those on the lower rungs of society who seek to elevate their status through cunning and opportunism. By exaggerating these traits for comedic effect, Plautus offers a critique of Roman values surrounding wealth and power, exposing the inherent contradictions within a society that prizes status yet thrives on dependency.

Related terms

Stock Characters: Standardized and recognizable character types commonly found in comedies, such as the clever slave or the braggart soldier, which help drive the narrative and humor.

Farce: A comedic style characterized by exaggerated and improbable situations, physical humor, and absurdity, often seen in Plautine works.

Slapstick: A form of comedy that relies on visual and physical humor, including exaggerated actions and gestures, often associated with the antics of characters like parasites.