Titus Andronicus

Back to List of Characters

Young Lucius

Young Lucius is a fascinating character in William Shakespeare's play, Titus Andronicus. Although he may be young in age, he possesses a maturity and intelligence beyond his years. Lucius is the grandson of Titus Andronicus, a Roman general, and plays a crucial role in the unfolding of the tragic events in the play. Throughout the play, Young Lucius is portrayed as a compassionate and caring individual. He serves as a moral compass and a voice of reason amidst the chaos and brutality that surrounds him. Despite being exposed to the horrors of war and revenge, Lucius remains steadfast in his belief in justice and righteousness. One of the most memorable moments involving Young Lucius occurs in Act IV, Scene II. In this scene, Lucius stumbles upon his uncle, Quintus, and his uncle's friend, Martius, who have been wrongfully accused of murder. Lucius's quick thinking and resourcefulness are showcased as he manages to save his uncle and Martius from execution by presenting the severed heads of two other victims, thereby proving their innocence.

The Heroic Act

This heroic act not only demonstrates Lucius's intelligence and wit but also his unwavering loyalty to his family. Despite his young age, Lucius is able to devise a plan that outwits the corrupt officials and brings about justice for his loved ones. Furthermore, Lucius's character undergoes a transformation throughout the play. At the beginning, he is portrayed as a naive and innocent child. However, as the events unfold and tragedy befalls his family, Lucius matures and develops a deeper understanding of the world around him. In Act V, Lucius assumes the role of a leader and becomes the voice of reason among the warring factions. He emerges as a symbol of hope and unity in a world plagued by violence and revenge. Lucius's leadership qualities shine through as he rallies the remaining characters together to seek retribution and restore order to Rome. In conclusion, Young Lucius is a remarkable character in Titus Andronicus. His intelligence, compassion, and unwavering loyalty make him a memorable presence in the play. Despite his young age, Lucius's actions and decisions carry significant weight and contribute to the overall plot and themes explored in the play.