Set in Arcadia, the play's plot contains two strains: the main plot features Ceres and three of her nymphs, Nisa, Celia, and Niobe; the three foresters or shepherds who love them, Ramis, Montanus, and Silvestris; and Cupid.
Ceres appeals to Cupid to release her nymphs; Cupid agrees, if Ceres will pardon Erisichthon.