Friar Bacon and Friar Bungay: Analysis of Major Characters
"Friar Bacon and Friar Bungay" features a blend of comedy and intrigue set in the context of medieval England, centering around notable characters that reflect themes of love, ambition, and the consequences of knowledge. Edward, the Prince of Wales, is portrayed as a pleasure-seeking young man who becomes envious when his friend Lacy successfully courts the fair maiden Margaret, ultimately deciding to bless their union. Lacy, characterized as a noble courtier, disguises himself to woo Margaret, believing that his sincere love surpasses Edward's fleeting affections. Margaret emerges as a pivotal figure, recognized as one of the early romantic heroines in English drama, captivating both men with her charm.
Friar Bacon stands out as a wise necromancer who grapples with the moral implications of his magical abilities, culminating in a renunciation of his powers after witnessing their tragic impact. His servant Miles introduces a comedic element, embodying folly and negligence, leading to his own downfall. In contrast, Friar Bungay, another necromancer, is less competent than Bacon and directly interferes in the romantic pursuits of others. The narrative also includes King Henry III and his entourage, highlighting the royal backdrop against which these personal dramas unfold. Overall, the play intricately interweaves the personal ambitions and relationships of its characters with broader themes of knowledge, love, and fate.
Friar Bacon and Friar Bungay: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Robert Greene
First published: 1594
Genre: Play
Locale: England
Plot: Historical
Time: Thirteenth century
Edward, the pleasure-loving Prince of Wales. Delighted by the charms of the milkmaid, Margaret, he sends his friend Lacy to woo her. He is filled with jealousy when he learns that the courtier has won her for himself, but he quickly overcomes his anger and has their marriage solemnized with his own.
Lacy, the Earl of Lincoln, a gracious young courtier who disguises himself as a farmer to visit Margaret. He feels no dis-loyalty in winning her love for himself, because he wishes to marry her and he knows that Edward's attentions would be fleeting.
Margaret, the fair maid of Fressingfield, whose youth and charm win the love of both the prince and Lacy. She is notable chiefly as one of the first romantic heroines in English drama.
King Henry III, Edward's father, who follows the prince to Oxford with his court.
Ralph Simnell, the king's rotund fool, Edward's companion. He revels in his opportunity to masquerade as the prince in Oxford.
Friar Bacon, the wise necromancer of Brasenose College, the only man capable of defeating Vandermast in a battle of wits. He breaks his magic mirror and renounces his studies when he sees the tragedies brought about by his skills.
Miles, his servant, a poor scholar. Notoriously stupid, he lets the friar sleep through his one chance to master his art, when the Brazen Head speaks. For his negligence, he is carried off to Hell on a devil's back, bragging about his mount.
Friar Bungay, another necromancer, inferior to Bacon, who magically prevents him from marrying Margaret and Lacy.
Jaques Vandermast, a learned doctor, brought by the emperor of Germany to dispute with Oxford's wisest men.
Elinor of Castile, the attractive young princess who is betrothed to Edward.
Burden, a spokesman for a group of learned doctors who visit Friar Bacon at Oxford to inquire about his proposed Brazen Head.