Lucius is a character in William Shakespeare's tragic play, Titus Andronicus. He is the eldest son of Titus Andronicus, a Roman general who becomes embroiled in a cycle of revenge and violence. Lucius is portrayed as a brave and loyal soldier, who is willing to fight for his family and uphold their honor.
From the very beginning of the play, Lucius stands out as a responsible and dutiful son. He is sent to the emperor's court as a hostage, a sign of his father's loyalty to Rome. However, when the emperor's sons rape and mutilate Lavinia, Titus' daughter, Lucius is quick to rally his father's army and seek justice for the heinous crime committed against their family.
Lucius' bravery and leadership skills are further highlighted when he is chosen as the new emperor of Rome after Titus' death. He becomes a symbol of hope and a beacon of justice in a city plagued by violence and bloodshed. Lucius is determined to restore order and bring an end to the cycle of revenge that has consumed his family and the city.
Lucius' ascension to power marks a turning point in the play. As the new emperor, he implements reforms to ensure justice and stability in Rome. He enacts strict laws and punishes those who have committed crimes, regardless of their social status. Lucius' commitment to justice is evident when he executes his own brother for his involvement in the revenge plot against Tamora, the Queen of the Goths.
Lucius' dedication to restoring order is not without its challenges. He faces opposition from Saturninus, the previous emperor's brother, who seeks to reclaim the throne. However, through his strategic thinking and the support of his loyal soldiers, Lucius is able to outmaneuver Saturninus and maintain his position as the rightful ruler of Rome.
In conclusion, Lucius is a central character in Titus Andronicus who embodies bravery, loyalty, and a strong sense of justice. His journey from a dutiful son to a powerful emperor showcases his growth and determination to bring an end to the violence that has plagued his family and his city. Lucius' story serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for redemption and a chance to restore order.