Sostratos

Definition

Sostratos is a character from Menander's comedy 'Dyskolos' (The Grouch), representing the quintessential young lover who is caught between his affections and societal expectations. His character embodies themes of love, desire, and the struggle to win the heart of the beautiful girl he loves while navigating the challenges posed by her father, who is notably difficult and grouchy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sostratos is in love with the character Philemon's daughter, whom he must impress to gain her father's approval.
2. The character often finds himself in humorous situations due to the contrasting personalities between him and the grouchy old man, Knemon.
3. Sostratos serves as a representation of youthful idealism, showcasing the innocence and determination of young love against obstacles.
4. His character arc involves significant growth as he learns to navigate complex emotions and societal pressures throughout the play.
5. Sostratos' interactions highlight key comedic elements in 'Dyskolos', providing both tension and resolution that drive the narrative forward.

Review Questions

• How does Sostratos exemplify the themes of love and societal expectations in 'Dyskolos'?
  • Sostratos represents youthful love as he pursues Philemon's daughter while facing opposition from her father, Knemon. His struggles reflect the tension between personal desires and societal norms, showing how love often requires overcoming obstacles. This dynamic emphasizes the comedic aspects of Menander's work, as Sostratos navigates misunderstandings and challenges inherent in romantic pursuits.
• Discuss how Sostratos' relationship with Knemon contributes to the development of comedy in 'Dyskolos'.
  • The comedic tension in 'Dyskolos' largely stems from Sostratos' interactions with Knemon, who embodies stubbornness and negativity. Sostratos' earnest attempts to win over both Philemon's daughter and her father create humorous conflicts, allowing for comedic relief through misunderstandings. This contrast between Sostratos' hopeful demeanor and Knemon's grouchy nature highlights the play's exploration of love amidst adversity.
• Evaluate Sostratos’ character development throughout 'Dyskolos', and its significance in portraying themes of maturity and perseverance.
  • Sostratos evolves from a naive young lover into a more mature character who learns to navigate social dynamics and emotional challenges. His journey reflects the broader theme of perseverance in love, illustrating how personal growth often requires facing adversity. This transformation is significant as it encapsulates Menander's understanding of human relationships, demonstrating that love can lead to self-discovery and resilience against external pressures.

Related terms

Menander: An ancient Greek playwright known for his contributions to New Comedy, characterized by complex characters and everyday situations.

Dyskolos: A comedy written by Menander that revolves around a grouchy old man and the efforts of young lovers to overcome his stubbornness.

New Comedy: A style of ancient Greek comedy that focuses on domestic and social themes, emphasizing character-driven plots rather than political satire.