Horace: Analysis of Major Characters
The analysis of major characters in the story of Horace centers on themes of honor, loyalty, and the tragic consequences of war. The central figure, Horace, is a Roman warrior who, alongside his brothers, defeats their Alban adversaries, including Curiace, who is both a rival and the fiancé of Horace's sister, Camille. The narrative examines Horace's complex character, portraying him as a patriot who grapples with the moral implications of his actions—particularly after he kills Camille in a fit of anger when she challenges his sense of honor. Camille's death underscores the emotional turmoil that arises from conflicting loyalties, as she is torn between her love for Curiace and her familial ties.
Sabine, the wife of Horace and sister to the slain Curiace, represents the anguish of a divided loyalty, embodying the struggle between personal affection and national allegiance. The story also features Old Horace, who reflects the values of patriotism and the burdens of heroism, while other characters like Julie and Valère add depth to the social dynamics surrounding the conflict. The ruler of Rome, Tulle, plays a pivotal role in determining the fate of Horace, emphasizing the interplay between individual action and societal expectations. Overall, the analysis reveals a rich tapestry of character interactions that explore the costs of war and the personal sacrifices made in the name of honor.
Horace: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Pierre Corneille
First published: 1641 (English translation, 1656)
Genre: Play
Locale: Rome
Plot: Tragedy
Time: Remote antiquity
Horace (oh-RAHS), a Roman warrior. The cities of Rome and Alba are at war, with the battle to be decided by armed combat between three heroes from each side. Horace and his two brothers, the Roman combatants, are victorious over their prospective Alban brother-in-law, Curiace, and his two brothers. All for honor and country, Horace taunts his sister Camille with the glory of Rome. He kills her when she declares that his deed is not patriotism but murder. He defends this act as one of justice, but he is aware that his glory is dimmed because of it, and he wishes to die. The king decrees that Horace's fate shall rest with the gods.
Sabine (sah-BEEN), Horace's Alban wife and the sister of the Alban brothers killed by Horace in combat. Torn between her loyalty to the city of her birth and to the city of her husband, she pleads in vain the cause of home and family against that of honor and patriotism. In despair over her husband's killing of her brothers and the murder of his sister, she wishes only to die.
Camille (ka-MEE-y), Horace's sister and the prospective wife of Curiace. She is killed by Horace when she reviles Rome in her grief over the death of Curiace.
Curiace (kew-RYAHS), Sabine's brother and the prospective husband of Camille. He is killed in combat with Horace.
Old Horace, Horace's father, an ardent patriot and a former warrior.
Julie (zhew-LEE), the confidant of Sabine and Camille.
Valère (vah-LEHR), a Roman warrior.
Tulle (tewl), the ruler of Rome.