Parasite

Definition

In the context of Greek comedy, a parasite is a character that thrives on the resources, generosity, or goodwill of others, often depicted as a sycophant or opportunist. This archetype is commonly seen in comedic works, where such characters highlight societal flaws through their absurd behaviors and relationships with more virtuous characters. Parasites serve as a means of critiquing social norms and human behavior, embodying themes of exploitation and dependency.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Parasites in Greek comedy often rely on witty dialogue and clever schemes to manipulate other characters for personal gain.
2. The portrayal of parasites serves to highlight the dynamics of power and social hierarchy within Athenian society.
3. Aristophanes famously used parasites in his plays to ridicule the corrupt politicians and societal norms of his time.
4. Menander's comedies often present more nuanced portrayals of parasites, sometimes showing them as sympathetic figures caught in societal constraints.
5. The comedic role of the parasite can serve as a reflection of real-life societal tensions, making audiences question moral values and behaviors.

Review Questions

• How do the characters of parasites contribute to the comedic elements in Greek plays by Aristophanes?
  • In Aristophanes' plays, parasite characters contribute to comedy by using wit and manipulation to create humorous situations. They often exploit the naivety or gullibility of other characters, leading to absurd outcomes that entertain the audience. This dynamic allows Aristophanes to critique societal flaws while engaging viewers with clever humor.
• Discuss the differences in how Aristophanes and Menander portray parasites in their comedic works.
  • Aristophanes typically portrays parasites as overtly greedy and unscrupulous individuals who blatantly exploit others for their benefit. In contrast, Menander presents parasites with more complexity, sometimes giving them depth and portraying them as victims of circumstance. This shift allows for a broader exploration of human behavior and morality in Menander's comedies.
• Evaluate the significance of the parasite archetype in understanding the social commentary present in Greek comedy during its peak.
  • The parasite archetype is significant in understanding social commentary within Greek comedy because it exposes issues related to class disparity, corruption, and moral ambiguity. By using these characters as vehicles for satire, playwrights like Aristophanes and Menander encourage audiences to reflect on their own values and societal norms. This examination remains relevant today, as it sheds light on human behavior across cultures and eras.

Related terms

Sycophant: A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important in order to gain advantage; similar to a parasite, they seek to benefit from others.

Satire: A genre that uses humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize or mock individuals, societies, or institutions, often exposing the foolishness of characters like parasites.

Stock Character: A stereotypical character easily recognized by audiences; parasites often fall into this category, embodying predictable traits that drive comedic narratives.