Who Autolycus is
Autolycus moves through Bohemia as a peddler, singer, and pickpocket who treats every rule as a game. He belongs to no particular class, moving through a countryside of sheep, songs, and feasts.
His ribbons and ballads are part of the play's shift toward country life and comedy. Alongside the young lovers and shepherds, he brings songs and sly humor into the Bohemian scenes.
Autolycus and the others in the story
Autolycus cheats the Clown, the old shepherd's son, out of his money in a comic encounter. His cheerful manner goes together with theft, so his good humor is not the same as honesty.
While Perdita and Florizel pursue their love, Autolycus follows his own course of selling, singing, and stealing. His tricks also help move events along, almost against his will.
Questions
Who is Autolycus in The Winter's Tale?
Autolycus is a roaming seller, singer, and thief who appears in the play's Bohemian countryside.
Is Autolycus honest?
No, he picks pockets and cheats people, including the shepherd's son, the Clown. The play presents his dishonesty with comedy and song.
What does Autolycus sell?
He sells ribbons and ballads. His trade sits alongside his less honest ways of getting money.