Seen But Not Heard

"Thou map of woe, that thus dost talk in signs"
(III.ii.12)

I think it is interesting that Titus refers to Lavinia as a "map." This kind of reminded me of the Mulvey article that we read a while back that emphasized how women have been present in film, etc merely to be looked at. Although Titus says that Lavinia's actions will be closely observed in order to interpret her, there is something a bit strange about paying so much attention to her body. Granted, she can no longer speak or even write, so her body language is the only option left, but there is something peculiar about the fact that her importance in the play is progressing right after she loses her ability to communicate effectively (toungue and hands).

Also, it is ironic that Titus was now in the position that Tamora was in the beginning of the play, getting down on his knees and begging to have the lives of his sons spared but being ignored. It is also interesting because he was considered Rome's greatest hero, which in a way exemplifies how such a great power, or such a dynamic individual, can lose everything in an instant once personal interests are compromised.