35 pages • 1 hour read
Cato, a Tragedy
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Book Brief
76
Play • Fiction
Utica, Roman Republic • 1st Century BCE
1713
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Cato, a Tragedy by Joseph Addison is a play set in the Roman Republic during Julius Caesar's reign, focusing on the Stoic Marcus Porcius Cato Uticensis's final days as he opposes Caesar's tyranny. Themes of virtue, liberty versus tyranny, and intricate personal relationships unfold in Utica, Tunisia, where Cato and other senators have fled. Includes mention of suicide.
Inspirational
Contemplative
Melancholic
Mysterious
Dark
Reviews & Readership
282 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Joseph Addison's Cato, a Tragedy is praised for its eloquent language and moral complexity, resonating deeply with themes of liberty and republicanism. Critics commend its historical significance and intellectual depth. However, some find the dialogue overly grandiose and the pacing slow. Its influence on political thought remains undeniable.
Who Should Read Cato, a Tragedy?
A reader who enjoys Cato, a Tragedy by Joseph Addison likely appreciates classical literature, political themes, and historical dramas. Fans of Shakespearean tragedies like Julius Caesar and Enlightenment works such as Voltaire's Zadig will find its exploration of republican ideals and stoic philosophy engaging.
282 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Marcus
Marcus
The son of Cato, known for his passionate adherence to virtue and his strong emotions, particularly his love for Lucia.
Portius
Portius
Cato's son who balances honor with emotion, struggling with revealing his feelings for Lucia due to family loyalty.
Sempronius
Sempronius
A Roman senator with ambitions opposed to virtue, known for his deceitful nature and his desire to win Cato's daughter Marcia.
Syphax
Syphax
A Numidian ally of Sempronius who is characterized by his deceit and lack of regard for honor.
Juba
Juba
A Numidian prince allied with Cato, who is noble and in love with Marcia, showing both honor and moments of personal desire.
Lucius
Lucius
A Roman senator and ally of Cato who values peace and advocates for sparing mankind from further warfare.
Lucia
Lucia
The daughter of Lucius, caught between her feelings for Portius and concerns about her family's well-being.
Marcia
Marcia
Cato's daughter, driven by virtue yet conflicted by her love for Juba, often seen as a reflection of her father's principles.
76
Play • Fiction
Utica, Roman Republic • 1st Century BCE
1713
Adult
18+ years
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