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The Host by Titus Maccius Plautus. Act I. 1518. Colored
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The Host by Titus Maccius Plautus. Act I. 1518. Colored
Titus Maccius Plautus (250-184). Latin playwright. The Host (Amphitryo). Engraving. Act I. Edition of 1518. Colored
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Media ID 14354164
© Thaliastock / Mary Evans
1518 Barcelona Comedy Edition Host Latin Maccius Plautus Playwright Titus
EDITORS COMMENTS
This engraving depicts a scene from The Host, or Amphitryo, a classic comedy play written by the renowned Latin playwright Titus Maccius Plautus around the 2nd century BC. The image is taken from the 1518 edition of the play, which was printed in Barcelona during the 3rd wave of the Renaissance. Plautus, born in the ancient Roman Republic, is considered one of the greatest figures in the history of Western theatre. His works, which often contained elements of farce and satire, were influential in shaping the comedic tradition that would continue through the centuries. In this particular scene from The Host, the argumentum, or plot summary, revolves around Amphitryo, a soldier who believes his wife Alcmena has been unfaithful to him. In a twist of fate, Amphitryo is deceived by Jupiter, who disguises himself as Amphitryo and seduces Alcmena, believing her to be his wife Mercury in disguise. The intricate details of this engraving bring the scene to life, with Amphitryo shown in the foreground, his expression filled with suspicion and anger, while Alcmena, in the background, appears to be in the midst of a passionate embrace with the disguised Jupiter. The colors used in the print add depth and dimension to the image, transporting us back to the ancient world and allowing us to experience a moment from Plautus' timeless comedy.
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