Parasitus

Definition

The term 'parasitus' refers to a character in Roman theater, often depicted as a comic figure who is a sycophant or a parasite living off the wealth of others. This character typically provides humor through their cleverness, manipulation, and social commentary, showcasing the dynamics of social class and dependency in Roman society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Parasitus' characters often serve as the foil to more serious protagonists, highlighting the absurdity of their situations and offering comedic relief.
2. This character type was a common feature in both Roman comedies and later adaptations in Renaissance theater, influencing the development of comedic archetypes.
3. The portrayal of parasitus reflects societal views on wealth and class, often critiquing the wealthy elite while providing insight into the lives of lower-status individuals.
4. In many plays, the parasitus exhibits traits like flattery and deceit, using their wits to navigate complex social interactions for personal gain.
5. Famous examples of parasitus include characters from Plautus' comedies, where their antics often lead to humorous misunderstandings and resolutions.

Review Questions

• How does the character of 'parasitus' serve to highlight themes of social class in Roman theater?
  • 'Parasitus' characters exemplify the interactions between different social classes in Roman society. They often embody the struggles of those who depend on the wealthy for survival while cleverly manipulating situations to their advantage. This dynamic allows audiences to reflect on issues of class disparity, dependency, and the moral implications of living off others' wealth through humor and wit.
• Discuss how the portrayal of parasitus contributes to the comedic elements in Roman plays.
  • 'Parasitus' enhances the comedic landscape of Roman theater through their clever dialogue and manipulative antics. By juxtaposing these characters with more serious figures, playwrights create tension that leads to humor. The humor not only entertains but also offers social commentary on human nature and societal norms, making it a vital element in understanding the broader context of Roman comedic traditions.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of the 'parasitus' character on modern comedic theater and literature.
  • 'Parasitus' has significantly influenced modern comedic forms by establishing a framework for the archetypal comic sidekick or manipulative character. This archetype continues to appear in various media today, reflecting themes of dependency and social critique. By tracing this lineage back to Roman theater, one can see how these early portrayals have evolved yet remain relevant in exploring class dynamics and human relationships in contemporary narratives.

Related terms

Ludi: Public games held in ancient Rome, including theatrical performances, which were an important aspect of Roman culture and entertainment.

Atellan Farce: A form of early Roman comedy that included improvisational elements, often featuring stock characters like the parasitus.

Pantomime: A theatrical performance that conveyed stories through dance and gestures rather than spoken dialogue, popular in Roman entertainment.