Terence

Date of Birth: 195/185 BCE

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: 159 BCE

Biography

Terence, born Publius Terentius Afer, was a Roman playwright during the early Roman Republic. His work primarily consisted of comedies adapted from Greek plays. Terence was born into slavery in Carthage around 195/185 BCE and was brought to Rome as a slave by the Roman senator Terentius Lucanus, who later freed him. Terence’s six known plays—Andria, Hecyra, Heauton Timorumenos, Eunuchus, Phormio, and Adelphoe—were highly influential and are still studied and performed today. His writing is noted for its clever dialogue, intricate plots, and deep characterizations, and he is considered one of the great dramatists of classical antiquity.

5 Interesting Facts about Terence

1. Terence was born a slave in Carthage before being brought to Rome and eventually freed.

2. His patrons included influential Roman figures such as Scipio Africanus and Laelius.

3. Terence’s plays were adaptations of Greek originals, particularly those of Menander.

4. All six of Terence’s plays have survived to the modern day, a rarity for ancient playwrights.

5. His work significantly influenced later playwrights, including Molière and Shakespeare.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Terence

1. “I am human, and I think nothing human is alien to me.”

2. “Fortune favors the brave.”

3. “There is nothing so easy but that it becomes difficult when you do it reluctantly.”

4. “While the mind is in doubt it is driven this way and that by a slight impulse.”

5. “The greatest wealth is contentment with a little.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As an ancient Roman playwright, net worth in modern terms is not applicable. However, Terence enjoyed substantial patronage and support from the Roman elite.