'The works of Plautus, ' writes Palmer Bovie, 'mark the real beginning of Roman literature.' Since Palutus's career unfolded against the background of the Second Punic War, it is not surprising that his prologues often end with a wish for the audience's 'good luck against your enemies' or that the plays have their share of arrogant generals, boastful military captains, and mercenary adventurers. In these lively new translations, which effectively communicate the vitality and verve of the originals, the plays of Palutus are accessible to a new generation.