The Comedy of Errors

Antipholus of Syracuse is one of the main characters. The play does not really have a single true protagonist, instead following an ensemble cast of characters. However, this Antipholus is positioned closest to the protagonist role, as the main plot opens by following his character. He arrives in a new city facing possible danger, seeking to find his lost family, reflecting The Problem of Rifts in Interpersonal Relationships. This quest positions him as the archetypal hero: an adventurer seeking resolution by overcoming obstacles.

To some degree, he is interchangeable with his twin in their thematic and narrative role. They share similar experiences of confusion as their environment challenges their worldview and sense of self, exploring The Nature of Identity. However, Antipholus of Syracuse has a slightly different character: He is more open to going with the flow, and more sympathetic to those who frustrate or confuse him, such as Adriana or Dromio. Shakespeare creates ambiguity about whether these differences come from his nature or are circumstantial, as these adventures are more tolerable for Antipholus of Syracuse. He benefits materially from the mishaps rather than losing, and crucially, he is deliberately adventuring in a strange land, unlike his twin, who suddenly finds his familiar world becoming strange.