The bulletin for Comedy of Errors touted the play as Shakespeare's first, or perhaps his second. I think that is really evident in the way he wrote. He stuck to traditions and avoided over-complicating things.

We learned about the three Unities last quarter in intro to drama, and these were fairly evident in Shakespeare's work. The unity of action was really obvious compared to the other plays we've read. In MOV, we were constantly jumping around, worrying about various characters. (Would so-and-so win Portia's heart? Would Antonio find a way out of getting his flesh cut off? Would Jessica and Lancelot be happy together?) COE is complicated to be sure, but the plot is very straightforward. Two dudes are looking for their brothers. Mixed identities Cause confusion. things get sorted out and everyone is happy. I guess you could consider the plight of the father a little subplot, as well as the two sisters development, but it's not important and not too much time is spent on either.

The unity of place was fudged a little, in my mind. It obviously all happens in the same town, but classical greek plays don't move from the exact place they start. This play seemed to roam the streets a bit, and parts like the Duke's first scene and the scenes where the two sisters talk don't seem to be out on the streets like the rest. Primarily though, we're in one place...unlike MOV. In MOV, there are two distinct geographical locations that represent two different things. (Business and Love, one commentary told me.) It's hard to figure out how this guided the play, but it did help prevent any deviations. I guess it also added to the comedic factor that the Dromios and Ephesuses were always bumping into each other in the streets.

I really appreciated the unity of time and the way that created tension and quick action in this play. It's an entirely lighthearted comedy that would have been really strained if everyone had to continue being mad and confused for much longer. Knowing that the father will be executed come evening, the audience is going to expect a quick resolution. It creates a tension and expectation that guides the play along.