Arcite:

One of the play's title characters, he is the nephew of Creon, king of Thebes, and the cousin of Palamon. Arcite is the victor in the trial-by-combat to determine who will marry Emilia, but he is mortally wounded when his horse rears up and falls backward on him. With his dying breath, he bestows his right to Emilia on Palamon: his kinsmen, dearest friend, and rival. Arcite and Palamon resemble each other in many ways. Born into the same distinguished family, each of them has won many honors in competitions and on the battlefield. They have hunted wild animals fearlessly and pursued women with youthful warmth and enthusiasm. Each of them is determined to have Emilia for himself. Yet despite the many similarities between them, it is possible to find some differences as well.

Arcite seems more conscientious and practical than Palamon. When the two of them are...