All Fools: Analysis of Major Characters
"All Fools: Analysis of Major Characters" explores the intricate relationships and schemes among a group of characters in a comedic narrative. Central to the story is Gostanzo, a stern Florentine gentleman who mistakenly sees his son Valerio as a diligent farmer, unaware of his son’s true nature as a gambler and womanizer. Valerio, in contrast, enjoys manipulating his father's perceptions and engaging in deceptive plots alongside Fortunio, Marc Antonio's charming son who is secretly in love with Gostanzo's daughter, Bellonora. Marc Antonio's forgiving nature stands in stark contrast to Gostanzo's rigidity, as he is quick to defend his own son for what he believes to be innocent actions. Rinaldo, the cynical brother of Fortunio, serves as the mastermind behind the various schemes to unite the young lovers. Meanwhile, Cornelio, a jealous courtier, struggles with his own insecurities and marital issues with his wife, Gazetta, who longs for the freedom of youth. The interplay of these characters highlights themes of deception, love, and parental oversight within a comedic framework.
All Fools: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: George Chapman
First published: 1605
Genre: Play
Locale: Italy
Plot: Comedy
Time: Sixteenth century
Gostanzo, a stern Florentine gentleman. He believes his son Valerio to be a shy, industrious farmer and contrasts his virtues with the supposed aberrations of Fortunio, counseling strong punishment for the filial ingratitude of the latter. He is unexpectedly won over by the elaborate schemes of the young people.
Valerio, his son, known to all but his father as a notorious gambler, drinker, and lover. He revels in schemes to gull Gostanzo and Cornelio, who once succeeded in duping him.
Marc Antonio, a mild-tempered gentleman who is ready to forgive his own son for his supposed secret marriage and is quick to intercede wherever he feels others are being too harsh or unjust.
Fortunio, Marc Antonio's older son, a gallant who is enamored of Gostanzo's daughter Bellonora. He is party to all the schemes in the air, although he initiates none of them.
Rinaldo, Fortunio's cynical brother, the intriguer who arranges the elaborate deceptions that enable Fortunio and Valerio to be with their mistresses.
Cornelio, an upstart courtier who appears to be consumed with jealousy of his young wife.
Gratiana, Valerio's bride, a beautiful but penniless young woman.
Bellonora, Fortunio's sweetheart. Her strict father, Gostanzo, keeps her under close watch, until he falls into Rinaldo's trap and gives her the much-desired opportunity to be with her lover.
Gazetta, Cornelio's wife. Chafing under her husband's jealousy, she confesses envy of the young women who have not yet settled down to married life. She entertains herself with Cornelio's friends.