Caligula: sub-text

Sub-text refers to the implicit or underlying meaning buried beneath the dialogue and actions of the characters. It forms the backbone of the narrative and helps in a deeper exploration of character motivations and themes.

Caligula’s capricious decisions and actions are fraught with sub-textual connotations. His demand for the moon, an impossible pursuit, reflects his struggle against mortality and desire to break free from the confines of human existence.
His relationship with Drusilla also carries deep sub-text. His overt affection for her is representative of his illusive quest for purity and his attempt to connect with human emotions amidst his descent into madness.

The conversational exchanges between Caligula and other characters such as Helicon, Cherea, and Scipio reveal a wealth of sub-text. Their discussions often veer towards philosophies of mortality, freedom, and love against the backdrop of violence and fear.
Caligula’s philosophical conversations with Cherea are notably loaded with sub-text. They delve into themes of freedom, power, and virtue thereby elucidating the conflicting ideologies and moralities in the play.

Characters like Caesonia and Scipio also facilitate sub-textual exploration. Caesonia’s loyalty to Caligula, despite recognising his brutality, showcases the ambiguity of human moral judgement.
The sub-textual undercurrents in Scipio’s character is his hope for a harmonious society which stands in contrast to Caligula’s existentialist perspective.

Recognising and understanding sub-text is crucial as it enables the actors to make more informed decisions about their character’s objectives and emotional undertones.
It is the actor’s responsibility to bring this layered sub-text to life through their delivery of dialogue, physical interaction, and emotive response, which adds depth to their performance.