Marcus Andronicus Character Analysis

“Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the universe.”-Albert E. Many say that Titus is one of the most influential tragedies written. Having every character having a diabolical side to them (excluding Marcus Andronicus) everyone has had their hands in murder or conspiracy. The elements that make this piece of literature such an influential tragedy can be appointed to number of things. From the stability of Rome (politically) to the theology and definition of who should hold power in Rome are some of the few elements that lead to the main points of tragedy and revenge in the story. While each character has their own personality they each have a “dark side” that they slowly demonstrate to extremes later on.
While the elections …show more content…
Also the same question of Primogeniture vs. Merit arises when Chiron and Demetrius argue over who should conquest Lavinia at the start of Act II. Chiron states that he should because he is the eldest while Demetrius says he should on the basis of worth. Though the argument is settled as Aaron says that both should have her. These two arguments make a statement about how dangerous and childishness the political process is. Primogeniture vs. Merit is one of the initial problems that starts the chain reaction of events that leads to tragedy of the Andronici. Now at the start of the story when the election is occurring. We hear Marcus tell he’s brother that “be candidatus then, and put it on…. And help to set a head on headless Rome.” In conclusion he is stating that Rome without an emperor is like a beheaded body. This interpretation continues throughout the story as Titus places Saturninus as emperor resulting in the disfigurement of the Roman body. As well as the later dismemberment of Lavinia’s body by Chiron and Demetrius, which in a way she represents the woe of woe. Whose virtue represents the Empire, and being dismembered piece by piece.