The play Amphitryon, by Plautus, revolves around a small circle of characters. The major roles in the play are those of Amphitryon, Jove, and Alcamena. Two slightly lesser roles, though of equal importance, are those of Mercury and Sosia. These two characters act as main intermediaries for their masters. This is one of the similarities I found in their roles. However, I also found many differences in these two characters. I believe the roles of Mercury and Sosia to both be important ones, with similarities as well as differences, which can be clearly seen in their relationships with their masters, the audience, and Alcamena as well.
             I think that both Sosia and Mercury respect their masters. Although in the beginning, both characters complain about being servants. Sosia says, "No easy job, this serving a millionaire; A rich man's servant leads a lousy life. All his nights and days it's just a constant strife"(7). This quote shows early in the play Sosia's displeasure in being a servant. Mercury complains about his service to Jove as well. When he hears Sosia complain he states, "Hey, I'm the one who should complain that way! Till Papa pressed me into service today I'd no idea what slavery meant. Now, he's been used to being a slave."(8). Despite these complaints about slavery, I think both of them enjoy serving their masters but for different reasons. Early in the play Sosia tells the audience of how his master "led us like a wonder"(9). He refers to the victory in battle Amphitryon had over the Thebans. I believe that Sosia is rather proud of his service to Amphitryon and respects his master's nobility and bravery. Mercury also shows signs of respect for Jove, his master and father. Mercury, the patron god of thieves, enjoys playing tricks and causing mischief. I believe this to be the reason he enjoys helping his father in this si
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