Abstract
The influence of political, social, and religious customs on Aristophanes and Plautus is evident in their comedic works. This thesis establishes, through the analysis of religious themes, that the religious nature of festivals, the prevalence of religious worship, and the impact of politics in influenced Aristophanes’ and Plautus’ works. The focus and structure of this work is categorized into the themes of devotion, divination, diviners, the divine, divine communication, ritual, and offerings. The purpose of a thematic approach facilitates cross-cultural comparisons of religiously through similar beliefs and practices found in Greek and Roman culture. Despite the influence of Greek theater in Rome, Plautus’ adaptations clearly reflect uniquely Roman perspectives under allusions of Greek settings. Aristophanes and Plautus portrayed elements of religion in their works, and despite the specific cultural influences of the playwrights both depicted them favorable to traditional beliefs and practices.