Terence's Beginnings (03:48)

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Terentius Lucanus brought Publius Terentius Afer to Rome as a slave, but freed the playwright after realizing his talent. This episode will show include excerpts from Terrence's "Phormio" and Moliere's"Scapin's Pranks." (Credits)

Roman Society (02:11)

Circuses and Roman baths were more popular than drama at the end of Terence's career. At the coliseum, bloodless duels of women or children would begin the festivities, followed by professional beast players fighting lions or tigers. Terence preferred kinder elements such as gentle masters and faithful slaves.

"Phormio": Plot and Characters (04:00)

Demipho insists that his son marries a friend of the family, but Antipho rebels and marries a penniless girl. Phormio is a predecessor to Brighella and Scapin. Watch a scene where Phormio tries to convince Demipho that Phanium is a relative.

"Scapin's Pranks": Act III, Scene 2: (03:09)

Fiorilli agreed to teach Jean-Baptiste Poquelin commedia dell'arte. Brighella, Pantalone, and Terence influenced Molière's play writing. Watch a scene where Scapin convinces Geronte he is in danger.

"Scapin's Pranks": Act III, Scene 2: Scapin Pretends (04:44)

Scapin convinces Geronte to hide in a sack and portrays the relatives, foreigners, and soldiers looking to murder him. Geronte emerges from the sack and realizes that Scapin tricked him.

Credits: Terence and Molière (03:00)

Credits: Terence and Molière