Alarbus

/əˈlɑr.bəs/ noun

Definition

In Shakespeare's 'Titus Andronicus,' the eldest son of Tamora, Queen of the Goths; the name of a character rather than a common word.

Etymology

From Shakespeare's invention, possibly drawing on Latin 'alarbus' roots, though the specific etymology is uncertain and likely created for dramatic effect in the play.

Kelly Says

Alarbus is one of Shakespeare's most immediately tragic characters—he appears in Act 1 only to be sacrificed to the Roman gods, setting off the entire tragic cascade of revenge that destroys everyone in the play.

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