11.1 Character development and psychology in Terentian plays

Terence's plays bring characters to life with deep psychological complexity. Unlike earlier Roman comedies, his characters grapple with inner conflicts, personal growth, and moral dilemmas, making them more relatable and multidimensional.

Through monologues and dialogues, Terence reveals characters' true motivations and emotions. This realistic portrayal allows audiences to see themselves reflected on stage, exploring universal themes of love, family, and personal growth.

Character Development in Terentian Plays

Depth of Terentian characters

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• Terence's characters exhibit greater psychological depth and complexity than those in earlier Roman comedy
  • Characters have more fully developed personalities and motivations like inner conflicts, personal growth arcs, and nuanced decision-making processes (Demea in Adelphoe)
  • They experience inner conflicts and personal growth throughout the plays, grappling with moral dilemmas, evolving relationships, and self-discovery (Pamphilus in Andria)
• Earlier Roman comedy characters were often stock types with little individual characterization
  • Characters were defined by their archetypal roles with predictable traits and behaviors (the clever slave, the young lover, the strict father)
  • They lacked the nuance, depth, and psychological realism found in Terentian characters, serving more as plot devices than fully realized individuals (Plautus' Pseudolus)
• Terence's characters are more multidimensional and relatable to the audience
  • They face real-life challenges and make decisions based on their individual circumstances, backgrounds, and emotional states (Chremes in Heauton Timorumenos)
  • Their actions and reactions are driven by their unique personalities and experiences, reflecting the complexities of human nature and relationships (Thais in Eunuchus)

Inner lives in Terence's plays

• Terence explores the inner thoughts, feelings, and motivations of his characters
  • Characters engage in self-reflection and introspection, revealing their hopes, fears, and internal struggles through monologues and asides (Pamphila in Eunuchus)
  • They grapple with moral dilemmas and personal conflicts, weighing their desires against societal expectations and personal values (Ctesipho in Adelphoe)
• Characters' actions are driven by their psychological states and emotional needs
  • Their decisions are influenced by factors such as love, loyalty, ambition, and self-preservation, often leading to internal turmoil and external conflicts (Phaedria in Eunuchus)
  • They are motivated by complex emotional states like guilt, jealousy, and self-doubt, adding depth to their characterization and driving the plot forward (Clitipho in Heauton Timorumenos)
• Terence portrays characters as complex individuals with unique perspectives and experiences
  • Each character has a distinct personality and backstory that shapes their behavior, attitudes, and relationships with others (Micio and Demea in Adelphoe)
  • Their motivations are not always clear-cut or easily understood by others, reflecting the ambiguity and subjectivity of human experience (Bacchis in Heauton Timorumenos)

Monologues for character revelation

• Monologues allow characters to express their inner thoughts and feelings directly to the audience
  • Characters reveal their true motivations, doubts, and desires through soliloquies, providing unfiltered access to their psychological states (Chaerea's monologue in Eunuchus)
  • Monologues offer insight into characters' decision-making processes and internal struggles, illuminating the complexities of their minds and hearts (Pamphilus' monologue in Andria)
• Dialogues between characters reveal their interpersonal dynamics and psychological states
  • Characters' words and actions in conversation reflect their underlying emotions, intentions, and power dynamics within relationships (Thais and Phaedria in Eunuchus)
  • Dialogues highlight the characters' conflicts, alliances, and emotional bonds, showcasing the intricacies of human interaction (Micio and Demea's dialogues in Adelphoe)
• Terence uses monologues and dialogues to gradually reveal characters' psychological depth and complexity
  • Characters' true nature and motivations are unveiled through their interactions and self-expressions, allowing the audience to piece together a comprehensive understanding of each individual (Clinia and Clitipho in Heauton Timorumenos)
  • The audience gains a deeper appreciation for the characters' inner lives and personal journeys as the play progresses, fostering empathy and emotional investment (Pamphilus' development in Andria)

Realism of Terentian characters

• Terence's characters are more realistic and relatable than those in earlier Roman comedy
  • They face challenges and make decisions that resemble real-life situations, such as navigating familial expectations, romantic pursuits, and personal ambitions (Aeschinus in Adelphoe)
  • Their emotions, flaws, and personal growth are recognizable and resonant to the audience, reflecting the universal human experience (Chrysis in Andria)
• Characters' psychological depth and complexity make them more believable and engaging
  • The audience can empathize with the characters' struggles and relate to their experiences, seeing aspects of themselves and their own lives reflected on stage (Sostrata in Heauton Timorumenos)
  • The characters' inner lives and motivations are portrayed in a way that feels authentic and genuine, transcending the limitations of stock characterization (Parmeno in Eunuchus)
• Terence's portrayal of realistic characters allows the audience to see themselves reflected on stage
  • The plays explore universal themes and experiences that resonate with the audience, such as love, family, identity, and personal growth (the brothers' relationship in Adelphoe)
  • The characters' journeys and personal transformations can inspire self-reflection and introspection in the audience, encouraging them to examine their own lives and relationships (Pamphilus' growth in Andria)