Captivi

Captivi, meaning "The Captives" in Latin, is a comedy written by the Roman playwright Titus Maccius Plautus. It is considered one of Plautus's more sophisticated and less farcical works, distinguished by the relative absence of stock characters and physical humor that characterized many of his other plays.

The play centers on Hegio, a wealthy Aetolian, who is desperately trying to find his two lost sons. One son, Tyndarus, was kidnapped as a child, and the other, Philocrates, was captured in battle. Hegio purchases two prisoners of war, Philocrates and Tyndarus, hoping to exchange one for Philocrates. However, a complex plot involving mistaken identities and loyalty unfolds, ultimately leading to the reunion of Hegio with both his sons.

Captivi is notable for its emphasis on themes of honor, loyalty, and the power of familial bonds. Unlike many Roman comedies which relied heavily on slapstick and caricature, Captivi aims for a more thoughtful and emotionally resonant experience for the audience. The play is also remarkable for the absence of female characters, focusing instead on the relationships between men and the consequences of war and captivity. It remains a frequently studied and occasionally performed work, offering insights into Roman society and theatrical traditions.