The title “The Pot of Gold” is a powerful and multifaceted choice for Plautus’ play, reflecting the central role the treasure plays in driving the plot and revealing the characters’ motivations. Here’s how it justifies itself:

1. Literal Representation:

• The Pot of Gold: On the most basic level, the title directly refers to the literal pot of gold Euclio, the protagonist, discovers. This hidden treasure becomes the catalyst for the play’s events.

2. Symbol of Desire and Greed:

• The Golden Lure: The pot transcends its physical form and becomes a symbol of desire and, particularly, Euclio’s insatiable greed. His obsession with hiding and protecting the gold fuels the comedic situations and the strain on his relationships.

3. Source of Conflict and Distrust:

• The Root of Discord: The pot of gold is the root cause of most conflicts within the play. Euclio’s paranoia about its safety leads him to suspect everyone’s motives, creating misunderstandings and mistrust, especially with his daughter Phaedria and her potential suitor.

4. Irony and Deception:

• The Illusory Promise: The gold, initially intended by the household god as a dowry for Phaedria, becomes a source of deception. Euclio’s miserliness prevents him from using it for its intended purpose, creating a layer of irony.

5. A Catalyst for Change:

• A Test of Character: The pot of gold acts as a test, revealing the true nature of the characters. Euclio’s descent into paranoia contrasts with Phaedria’s honesty and Lyconides’ perseverance. Ultimately, the gold may play a role in Euclio’s eventual redemption.

6. Universal Theme of Materialism:

• Beyond the Play: The title transcends the specific plot and becomes a symbol of materialism’s dangers. The pot of gold represents the corrupting influence of wealth and how the pursuit of riches can lead to isolation, suspicion, and the loss of more valuable things.

In conclusion, “The Pot of Gold” is not just a literal object but a symbolic representation of desire, conflict, deception, and the corrupting influence of materialism. It serves as a central theme that drives the plot and reveals the characters’ inner struggles.