'Casina' by Plautus: An Annotated Latin Text, with a Prose Translation

Abstract

'Casina' was written for audiences in ancient Rome, but tells the story of an Athenian man and his son competing for the affections of a young enslaved woman who was brought up in their household. Deception, disguise, and domestic conflict unfold as the old man’s schemes are cleverly thwarted by his wife. Likely one of Plautus’s later works, 'Casina' offers both linguistic challenge and comic brilliance, making it ideal for classroom use or independent study. This edition features the complete Latin text of the play, richly annotated with grammatical and vocabulary notes to support comprehension. A clear prose translation accompanies the original, offering accessible insight into the humor and intrigue of the play. The introduction provides historical and cultural context, situating the farce within ancient Athenian and Roman comedic traditions. This volume is designed for students with intermediate Latin skills who wish to engage directly with Plautus’s lively comic play.