Episode 39

The Brothers, dated to 160 BCE, is Terence’s last surviving work.  We have that date exactly because the play is recorded as being presented at the games held to honour the Roman general Lucius Aemillus Paullus.  

The first presentation of the play and who was Lucius Aemillus Paullus?

The prologue to the play and Terence's defence of his use of Greek plays to create a new piece.

A synopsys of the play

The Brothers as a play of ideas and a discussion of it's main themes about the best way to raise sons.

The external influences in an expanding Roman Republic and how they influence the play.

The main characters Demea and Micio as more complex and developed characters than have been seen before.

The role of Sannio the slave dealer and other minor characters.