Book Brief
55
Play • Fiction
Ephesus • Ancient Greece
-1
Adult
12-18 years
Super Short Summary
In The Braggart Soldier by Plautus, the boastful soldier Pyrgopolynices believes himself to be the hero, but the true protagonist is the clever slave Palaestrio. Palaestrio discovers that Pyrgopolynices has kidnapped his master’s lover and devises an intricate plan to rescue her, demonstrating his wit and honor. Through this, Plautus subverts traditional social hierarchies and critiques Roman society.
Humorous
Playful
Romantic
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Braggart Soldier by Plautus is a comedic play that has garnered diverse critical feedback. Positively, its witty dialogue and humorous situations are praised for their timeless appeal and engaging character dynamics. However, some critiques highlight a perceived repetitiveness in the humor and a lack of depth in character development. Though the farcical elements are entertaining, they can overshadow the narrative's subtleties. MLA style example: Goyal, Tanisha. "The Braggart Soldier: Review Analysis." Journal of Ancient Literature, vol. 22, no. 3, 2023, pp. 45-47.
Who Should Read The Braggart Soldier?
A reader who enjoys The Braggart Soldier by Plautus is likely to appreciate classic comedic literature, ancient Roman culture, and satirical plays. Fans of Aristophanes’ The Clouds and Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing will find the humor and character archetypes engaging and familiar.
55
Play • Fiction
Ephesus • Ancient Greece
-1
Adult
12-18 years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.