slavery has been the selfish disregard of human suffering which it encouraged not only amongst the masters but amongst the slaves themselves; and it is well known that a negro overseer has often shown far more cruelty towards those of his own colour than the white owner of the plantation.
The slave Pseudolus, who is the hero of this piece, and from whom Molière seems to have borrowed in some degree his character of Mascarille in 'L'Etourdi,' is somewhat of a more intellectual rascal than others of his type who appear in these comedies. He looks upon successful roguery as a highly intellectual accomplishment.
Just as the poet, when he takes his pen,
Seeks things which upon earth have no existence,
And straightway finds them, and makes that like truth
Which is but very falsehood; thus will I
In my way be a poet; these gold pieces
Which are not, shall be; genius shall create them.
The scene in which he meets his master Simo, who is looking for him in order to make some inquiries as to the late discreditable goings-on of his son, in which he thinks with some justice that Pseudolus has been aiding and abetting, is a good specimen of cool effrontery. Simo is accompanied by his friend Callipho, and Pseudolus sees them coming.
Pseudolus (to himself). A bold behaviour in a doubtful cause
Is half the victory. (Bowing profoundly to Simo.) Sir,
my best respects—
