Fabula Palliata

Roman comedies adapted from Greek originals where actors wore the Greek pallium.

Contaminatio

The dramatic technique of mixing elements from multiple Greek plays to create a new Roman play.

Stock Characters

Recurrent character archetypes in Roman comedy, such as the angry old man or clever slave.

Vis Comica

The inherent comic force or power driving scenes in Roman comedy.

Micio's Parenting Philosophy

A lenient approach based on kindness, generosity, and inspiring respect rather than fear.

Demea's Parenting Philosophy

A stern, traditional Roman approach emphasizing strict command, obedience, and fear of punishment.

Adelphoe (The Brothers)

A play by Terence set in Athens that contrasts two fathers to explore parenting styles and cultural values.

Eunuchus (The Eunuch)

Terence's most popular and financially successful play, used to discuss genre license and social status.

Comedia Togata

Roman comedies featuring Italian settings and characters wearing the Roman toga.

Macedonian Wars

A series of four conflicts (214-148 BC) between Rome and Macedonia that established Roman military dominance.

Roman Maniple vs. Greek Phalanx

The flexible, modular Roman tactical unit that proved superior to the rigid Greek spear formation.

The conquerors have been conquered by the conquered

An aphorism describing how defeated Greece culturally flooded and influenced Rome.

Rape of Lucretia

A foundational Roman myth where a noblewoman's assault led to the overthrow of the monarchy and founding of the Republic.

Cantica

The sung or poetical portions of Roman plays accompanied by musical instrumentation.

Dramatic Irony

A comedic device where the audience knows more than the characters, amplifying tension and humor.

Roman Comedy Staging

A fixed set featuring two houses and a street, utilizing controlled entrances and exits for comedic timing.

Shame vs. Guilt Culture

External conformity via fear of exposure versus internalized moral responsibility.

Terence (Publius Terentius Afer)

A Roman comic playwright of African descent, formerly enslaved, known for sophisticated social and ethical themes.