Cinna: Analysis of Major Characters
"Cinna: Analysis of Major Characters" delves into the intricate relationships and moral dilemmas faced by the characters in this narrative centered around themes of love, revenge, and redemption. Cinna, the grandson of Pompey, is portrayed as a passionate young man who seeks to avenge his beloved Amelia's father's death by assassinating Emperor Augustus, whom he views as a tyrant. Amelia is depicted as initially unwavering in her pursuit of revenge, but she ultimately succumbs to the emperor's displays of kindness and noble intentions, shifting her loyalty and taking responsibility for the conspiracy. Augustus stands as a central figure, demonstrating exceptional mercy and forgiveness that not only challenges the conspirators' motives but also earns their respect and admiration. Livia, the empress, reinforces the values of generosity and mercy, advocating for their importance among future leaders. Supporting characters like Maximus, Cinna's friend, and Fulvia, Amelia's confidante, add depth to the narrative, exploring themes of loyalty and complicity. Through these characters, the story presents a nuanced exploration of morality, the potential for change, and the impact of forgiveness in the face of betrayal.
Cinna: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Pierre Corneille
First published: 1643 as Cinna: Ou, La Clémence d'Auguste (English translation, 1713)
Genre: Play
Locale: Rome
Plot: Tragedy
Time: c. 10 c.e.
Cinna (SIH-nuh), the grandson of Pompey. In love with Amelia, he seeks to win her hand by avenging her father's death through the murder of Emperor Augustus, whom he regards as a tyrant. He is finally led to remorse for his evil intentions by the emperor's display of forgiveness, mercy, and generosity.
Amelia, who is loved by Cinna. She asks, as a provision of their marriage, that he avenge her father by murdering Emperor Augustus. Long remorseless in her demands for revenge, she is finally won over by the emperor's nobility and clemency, takes blame for the plot on herself, and gives her friendship to Augustus.
Augustus, the emperor of Rome. He discovers, among those he loves and trusts, a plot to take his life. the emperor, through his mercy and forgiveness, causes remorse among the conspirators and wins their admiration and friendship.
Livia, the empress of Rome. She commends her husband's generosity and mercy to all future rulers.
Maximus, Cinna's friend and fellow conspirator.
Fulvia (FOOL-vee-uh), Amelia's friend and confidante.
Evander (eh-VAN-dur), Cinna's freedman.
Euphorbus (ew-FOHR-buhs), Maximus' freedman and fellow conspirator.
Polyclitus (pol-ih-KLI-tuhs), Augustus' freedman.