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41 pages 1 hour read

Pseudolus

Fiction | Play | Adult

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Book Brief

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Plautus

Pseudolus

Fiction | Play | Adult
Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Athens • Ancient Greece

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In the play Pseudolus by Plautus, the clever slave Pseudolus promises his young master, Calidorus, that he will help him save his lover, Phoenicium, from being sold to a Macedonian soldier by her owner, Ballio, utilizing clever schemes and disguises. The story unfolds with various deceptions, culminating in Pseudolus's successful trick to secure Phoenicium for Calidorus.

Humorous

Playful

Adventurous

Romantic

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

3.7

846 ratings

44%

Loved it

40%

Mixed feelings

16%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Pseudolus by Plautus is praised for its sharp wit, clever plot, and strong character development, particularly the titular cunning slave. The play effectively critiques social norms through humor and presents timeless themes of trickery and resourcefulness. However, some critics note that the humor can feel dated, and certain cultural references may be lost on modern audiences. Overall, it remains a vibrant example of Roman comedy.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Pseudolus?

A reader who enjoys comedic plays featuring clever schemes and witty characters will appreciate Plautus' Pseudolus. Fans of Shakespeare's comedies, such as A Midsummer Night's Dream, or classic farces like Molière's The Misanthrope, will find similar enjoyment in this entertaining ancient Roman play.

3.7

846 ratings

44%

Loved it

40%

Mixed feelings

16%

Not a fan

Character List

Pseudolus

The clever and cunning slave of Simo, who is a master at devising plans and using his wit to assist Calidorus. Known for his confidence and quick thinking, he is a key figure in orchestrating the scheme to aid his friend.

Pseudolus's master, who is the father of Calidorus and initially doubts Pseudolus's capabilities. He becomes entangled in a wager involving his son’s romantic endeavors and is often portrayed as cautious and concerned.

A harsh and greedy pimp who owns Phoenicium and is unrelenting in his pursuit of wealth. His interactions with Pseudolus and others reveal his brash and cruel demeanor.

The diligent slave of a Macedonian soldier, responsible for securing a financial transaction to purchase Phoenicium. His adherence to duty is tested through a mix-up with Pseudolus.

A resourceful and sly slave associated with Charinus, known for his ability to navigate tricky situations. He plays a crucial role in executing a key part of Pseudolus’s plan.

Simo's romantic and emotionally expressive son, who is deeply in love with Phoenicium. He relies heavily on Pseudolus's ingenuity to address his predicament regarding Phoenicium.

Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Athens • Ancient Greece

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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