Which major theme is commonly explored in the works of Plautus?

The theme of servitude and freedom is prominently explored in the works of Plautus, who often centered his comedic narratives around characters who are slaves or in servile positions. His plays frequently depict the complexities of hierarchy, social structure, and the quest for personal autonomy within the constraints of servitude. The archetype of the clever slave is a recurring motif in Plautus’ comedies, where such characters often outsmart their masters or devise clever schemes to achieve freedom or improve their circumstances, reflecting societal attitudes towards servitude and liberation during the Roman Republic.

In contrast, while political intrigue, family relationships, and mythological quests might appear in various forms in literature, they do not encapsulate the predominant focus of Plautus’ works as effectively as the theme of servitude and freedom. His comedies are less about grand political maneuvers or mythological narratives and more centered on everyday life, the dynamics of master-slave relationships, and the social commentary surrounding these interactions.