Caligula

Main Characters and Their Development

• Caligula — the Roman Emperor, the central character of the play. At the beginning of the work, he is portrayed as a man who has lost the meaning of life after the death of his sister and lover Drusilla. His despair and disillusionment with life lead him to seek absolute freedom and power, ultimately turning him into a tyrant. Caligula strives for the impossible, desiring to possess the Moon, symbolizing the unattainable. His development in the play shows how the thirst for absolute power and freedom leads to destruction and chaos.
• Helicon — Caligula's loyal servant, who supports him in all his endeavors. He serves as a kind of voice of reason and tries to keep Caligula from extremes, yet remains devoted to his master.
• Caesonia — Caligula's mistress, who genuinely loves him and tries to understand his inner suffering. She is one of the few who sees in Caligula not only a tyrant but also a man struggling with inner demons.
• Scipio — a young poet who admires Caligula and his quest for absolute freedom. However, over time he begins to realize the danger Caligula poses, and his admiration turns to disillusionment.
• Cherea — one of the conspirators against Caligula. He represents the voice of reason and morality, seeing Caligula as a threat to Rome and seeking to end his tyranny.