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Philolach's Struggle Between Philematium And Scapha

Decent Essays

Although this scene does not contribute to the salvation of the plays struggle, it gives insight into the root of the conflict by using Philematium and Scapha as a representation of a master’s lack of self-control. Philolaches’s freeing of Philematium for thirty minae, which was a “Straw to other wild expenses,” could have been an extension of Plautus ridicule of masters who lacked self-control (Segal, 176). According to scholars, “Such masters needed correction, or more often invited ridicule.” However, to Plautus the lack of self-control was best mocked through, “Slaves cringing at the idea of the whip,” (Bradley,225). Which is broadly recognized in other Plautine comedies such as, “The pot of gold” where Euclio does not show control over his Staphyla’s punishment, causing ridicule among Euclio. In this scene, Philolaches’s diction and intention towards Scapha, “I’m barley in control, I’d fly right at the evil bitch’s eyes,” is a driving force for comedic appeal. In addition, the violent diction towards Scapha can again be tied to reputation through Scapha’s unideal advice to Philematium, “You’re wrong to put your hopes in just one lover, to be so dutiful to him, rejecting other men,” (Segal, 139). …show more content…

Clearly Scapha’s remark angers Philematium, where his rage reveals a considerable amount about his character; it mostly reasserts his awareness of societal standards for a good reputation based on his earlier doleful

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