In ancient Rome, a cunning and discontented slave named Pseudolus concocts a scheme to gain his freedom. When his young master, Hero, falls in love with Philia, a courtesan promised to a braggart soldier, Pseudolus seizes the opportunity. He strikes a deal with Hero: if he can unite the young lovers, Hero will grant him his liberty. However, complicating matters are Hero's parents, Senex and Domina, who must be kept in the dark, and Hysterium, the nervous head house slave, who becomes unintentionally embroiled in Pseudolus’s plans.

As Pseudolus navigates through his intricate ruse involving mistaken identities and physical comedy, he faces numerous challenges, including the persistent advances of Senex towards Philia and the gradual closing in of the braggart soldier. Each misstep throws Pseudolus into more outrageous situations, prompting quick thinking and audacious stunts. His schemes often teeter on the brink of disaster but highlight his resourcefulness and wit in a desperate bid for freedom. The story unfolds with escalating tension and comedic turbulence, combining elements of farce with historical and social satire.