Roman Theater with Plautus, Terence, and Seneca: Crash Course Theater #6

The video explores Roman drama, focusing on comedies by Plautus and Terence, and tragedies by Seneca. Roman comedies, heavily influenced by Greek originals, feature stock characters and plots. Plautus' energetic plays are contrasted with Terence's sophisticated style. The Menaechmi, a play by Plautus, is highlighted for its comedic plot. Seneca's tragedies, known for their dark themes and 5-act structure, reflect the violent Roman society.

What is the primary influence on Roman comedic plays?

• Indian epics

• Greek originals

• Egyptian mythology

• Persian folklore

Which character is typically the hero in Roman comedies?

• Miles Gloriosus

• Adulescens

• Servus

• Senex

How many plays attributed to Plautus have survived?

• 30

• 40

• 20

• 10

What is a notable feature of Plautus' plays?

• They are mostly tragedies.

• They include musical elements.

• They are silent performances.

• They focus on historical events.

Where was Terence born?

• Syracuse

• Athens

• Rome

• Carthage

What distinguishes Terence's plays from those of Plautus?

• More frequent musical numbers

• Deeper ironies and saner characters

• Less sophisticated language

• More plot holes

What is the central theme of 'The Menaechmi'?

• Historical events

• Mistaken identity

• Mythological tales

• Political intrigue

What is a key characteristic of Seneca's tragedies?

• They often include extreme violence.

• They are based on Roman mythology.

• They avoid any form of violence.

• They are light-hearted comedies.

What structure did Seneca's tragedies introduce that influenced Shakespeare?

• Seven-act structure

• One-act structure

• Five-act structure

• Three-act structure

What was a common theme in Seneca's plays?

• Divine intervention

• Romantic comedies

• Peaceful resolutions

• Atrocities by the powerful